Breaking: Insider Reveals Blockbuster Canadiens’ Trade For All Star

Eric Engels, a Montreal Canadiens insider, appeared on The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro this week and was asked about all of the rumors linking the Canadiens to a trade involving forward Patrik Laine. Heavily discussed as a team that would be pushing the tires on bringing Laine in from Columbus, Engels says it’s probably time to ‘get serious’ about the Canadiens’ interest, which would be “minimal” at most.

Engels said, “Let’s be realistic about the situation.” “Patrik Laine is on the market for a reason.” Noting that it’s not just because clubs can now meet with the player because he’s no longer in the Players Assistance Program, but also because of his mental and physical state, as well as the fact that his play on the ice has deteriorated in recent years. “It just has been deficient in various categories. I understand his desire for a fresh start.

Why Is Montreal Not Highly Interested in Laine?

Engels suggests that Montreal may not be on Patrik Laine’s list of acceptable trade destinations, and questions whether Laine would want to leave the NHL’s Player Assistance Program only to face the intense scrutiny that comes with playing in Montreal. He notes that the Canadiens have a “healthy room” and may not want to bring in a player with Laine’s current situation during this stage of their development.

The Latest Montreal Canadiens Speculation - The Hockey News
Patrik Laine

Engels also pointed out that while the Canadiens need more scoring, Laine carries an $8.7 million cap hit and a $9.1 million actual salary. Even though Montreal could afford to take on that contract given their cap space, doing so would likely require significant compensation from the Columbus Blue Jackets. It’s uncertain if Blue Jackets’ GM Don Waddell is willing to take on such a burden.

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