Welcome to the Atlantic Division, Patrik Laine!
The Columbus Blue Jackets traded Laine and a second-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft to the Montreal Canadines for defenseman Jordan Harris.
Laine appeared in just 18 games, scoring six goals and three assists, during 2023-24 season.
The 26-year-old suffered a broken clavicle in a December 14 road game against the Toronto Maple Leafs then had an undisclosed setback delaying his recovery from the injury on January 27. He entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program the next day, saying on social media he wanted to prioritize his mental health,
Laine was the second overall pick in 2016 and has produced 204 goals and 388 points with the Winnipeg Jets and Blue Jackets. He was two years left on his current contract which carriesd an $8.7 million AAV.
The Florida Panthers will get a first look at Laine and the Canadiens on December 28, at Amerant Bank Arena.
Harris, 24, had three goals, 11 assists and went minus-5 in 56 games with the Canadiens last season. Harris has eight goals and 23 assists in 131 games over three seasons with the Habs.