The Montreal Canadiens Acquire Patrik Laine from the Columbus Blue Jackets. This trade, announced on Monday, also includes a second-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, with defenseman Jordan Harris heading to Columbus. After a tumultuous year both on and off the ice, Laine is eager for a fresh beginning.

Overcoming Setbacks and Mental Health Challenges

Laine’s journey to Montreal comes after a challenging period. In December, he suffered a clavicle injury, which sidelined him for much of the season. Additionally, he faced mental health struggles, entering the NHL’s Player Assistance Program for six months. On returning, Laine expressed his readiness to play, stating, “I haven’t been enjoying myself for a while, but now I’m happier than ever, off the ice.”

Having prioritized his mental health, Laine was cleared to return to the ice on July 26, and he’s excited to join the Canadiens. “I’ve done a lot of work on myself to get to this point, and I’m super excited about playing in a new place with new teammates,” Laine said.

Canadiens Confident in Laine’s Recovery

Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes emphasized that the team conducted a thorough investigation into Laine’s health before finalizing the trade. Hughes praised the transparency of Laine and Columbus GM Don Waddell, stating, “We came away from that conversation very satisfied.”

Despite last season’s struggles, Laine remains optimistic about his future in Montreal. “No concerns with the body or the mind. I feel like I’m in a really good place as a whole package,” he said.

A Promising Addition to the Canadiens Roster

The 25-year-old winger has already played 480 NHL games, scoring 204 goals and 184 assists. Laine’s experience and talent will be a valuable asset to the Canadiens as he looks to follow in the footsteps of Finnish legend Saku Koivu.

Source: TSN