A major trade proposal sending Patrik Laine to the Montreal Canadiens has emerged.

As we get closer to the NHL draft, perhaps no fanbase in the NHL has higher expectations than the Montreal Canadiens’. Since general manager Kent Hughes was hired in 2022, the Habs have pulled off big trades during each draft.

They acquired Kirby Dach in 2022 and Alex Newhook in 2023. Now, it is almost expected that Hughes is preparing another move.

An interesting proposal suggests that the Montreal Canadiens could send the 26th overall pick in 2023, Christian Dvorak, and Jordan Harris to the Columbus Blue Jackets in return for Patrik Laine.

“🚨TRADE PROPOSAL🚨 To Montreal: Patrik Laine To Columbus: 26th overall, Christian Dvorak, Jordan Harris The Canadiens add a 6’5» bounce-back candidate, and the Blue Jackets add a high-end draft pick, a middle-six C, and a young D prospect. Who says no?”

Laine had yet another tough season in the NHL last year. He got injured many times and joined the Player Assistance Program.

Even if Montreal has one of the best coaches in the League with Martin St-Louis, renowned for being able to help players reach their full potential, it would be surprising to see Hughes going after Laine on the trade market.

While his talent is undeniable, playing in Montreal comes with a lot of challenges that can take its toll on players. If Laine wants to succeed in a market like Montreal, he’ll need to get the right tools. This could dissuade Hughes from making that move.

Do you think Patrik Laine will be traded to the Montreal Canadiens?