Patrik Laine reportedly refused to play for John Tortorella and the Philadelphia Flyers

Over the past few months, the Patrik Laine saga dominated headlines in Columbus, and after being released from the NHLPA's Player Assistance Program, he was promptly traded back to Canada, joining the rising Montreal Canadiens. That always appeared to be the most logical landing spot for the 26-year old star, but now, on the Laraque and Gonzalez Show, it has been revealed that Laine used his no-trade clause to block a surprise trade.

The trade would have sent Laine to the Philadelphia Flyers for Ryan Johansen, with the Blue Jackets happy to take on his contract and seemingly place him on LTIR immediately after the deal. However, with the Flyers future not quite as bright as Montreal and Head Coach John Tortorella not being a popular name among the league, Laine quickly moved to block the trade, instead heading North.

Only time will tell whether or not this was the right career move, but with potential linemates like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield among others in the coming years, there's optimism that Laine can get back to his very best, and likely become a consistent 40+ goal scorer in the NHL.

Source: Hockey Feed
Laine reportedly blocked trade to Flyers