Blue Jackets Had To Move On From Patrik Laine – Hockey Writers – Montreal Canadiens
The Columbus Blue Jackets and Patrik Laine have found a solution to his trade request. On Monday afternoon, the Blue Jackets traded Laine and a 2026 second-round pick to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for defenseman Jordan Harris.
As part of the deal, the Blue Jackets did not retain any salary on Laine's deal, which had two seasons left at $8.7 million AAV.
Laine reportedly requested a trade from the Blue Jackets under previous leadership when GM Jarmo Kekalainen was in charge. But now under Don Waddell, Laine got his wish.
In the end, the Blue Jackets had no choice but to take this step now, even if the comeback was not easy.
Resetting How We Got Here
The 2023-24 season was difficult for Laine for many reasons. Despite overcoming multiple injuries, he entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program.
While it is still unknown what exactly led Laine to enter the program, his trade request indicated that he is not interested in being with or near the Blue Jackets. As we reported last week, Waddell said Laine and new coach Dean Evason had a good conversation. However, Laine reiterated his desire to start over elsewhere.
Waddell said last week he was no closer to a deal. But now on Monday, he was able to close the deal with Kent Hughes.
Make no mistake. There was an urgency on Waddell's part to get this deal done as quickly as possible. When it was emphasized that Laine did not want to be in the Blue Jackets, the team had to stand up.
Especially given the events of the last few seasons, the last thing the Blue Jackets needed was any kind of distraction heading into training camp. With the trade completed, they not only deal with any potential drama, they get financial flexibility while getting a player who can help the team.
What Green Jackets Get in Trades
The Blue Jackets got two big pieces in the trade. As we mentioned above, they get financial flexibility by not keeping any of Laine's salary.
This added flexibility allows the Blue Jackets to pick and choose their battles when the opportunity arises. While they don't have to take advantage of the break now, they can take advantage of opportunities from around the league once training camps begin.
Waddell being able to get out of that contract entirely was the outcome he preferred. He was able to make it happen. He was also able to find a player who could see playing time in the NHL in Jordan Harris.
Harris is seen as a down-to-one defensive lineman. According to the model below, Harris' projected value exceeds his current annual value.
Harris' return to the deal also allows the Blue Jackets the opportunity to allow a prospect like Denton Mateychuk to start in the AHL if the team feels he needs more time there. It will be interesting to see how the new regime looks at future developments.
The Blue Jackets had to add a 2026 second-round pick to complete the deal. The fact that in two years makes it less important than the first thought. They can find more options later when the opportunity arises.
Blue Jackets Well Made in Condition
Laine didn't want to be a Green Jacket. Waddell told us last week that 100% of the players he talked to wanted to be part of the solution with the Blue Jackets.
Having Laine in training camp was not an option the Blue Jackets could afford. Montreal had cap space and was able to take the contract in full. It was enough for Waddell to make a deal under the circumstances.
This trade is an example of a team making the best of an unusual situation and still getting some benefits out of it. One of the main jobs for both Waddell and Evason will be scouting the team and making sure the guys in the house want to be there.
While the Blue Jackets' return was not satisfactory for someone of Laine's caliber, they ensured the room will be in a good place once camp opens. One cannot understate how important that is to the team as they prepare for their season.
Finally, Laine has a fresh start with the Canadiens and the Blue Jackets have a fresh start of financial flexibility to boot. They had no choice but to make this deal and they made the best of the situation.
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