The plan of Kent Hughes for Patrik Laine's trade has been revealed
A renowned New York radio host with access to the Canadiens' entourage reportedly got the scoop that a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets for Patrik Laine is about to be announced by Montreal.
Everyone would remember the famous character "Incarcerated Bob," the same insider who announced the hiring of Martin St-Louis by the Canadiens and was also the first to announce Alex Newhook's arrival in Montreal.
In recent hours, he has been questioned about what is currently happening between the Canadiens and the Blue Jackets. It is understood that the reference was to the Patrik Laine situation.
His response was quite interesting.
The Finn officially left the NHL's player assistance program a few days ago. He had to rejoin the Jackets' organization to be put on the trade market. He even pushed for a trade from the Blue Jackets.
Several rumors have circulated about Kent Hughes' interest in the solid, goal-scoring forward. Is the Canadiens' GM serious about acquiring Patrik Laine? Yes, but not at any price!
- Incarcerated Bob
Don Waddell is being demanding. At the same time, he knows Patrik Laine's potential is impressive. If he has managed to overcome his demons in therapy, he could return to being the prolific 40-goal scorer in the NHL.
Right now, there are probably three or four teams interested in acquiring him, but none wants to take too big a risk. The more weeks go by, the more Don Waddell's expectations will decrease. This means that time could be Kent Hughes' best ally at the moment.
If the value becomes attractive for Kent Hughes, it wouldn't be surprising if he sets his sights on the big Finnish forward, who stands 6 feet 5 inches tall. In hockey jargon, this is called low risk, high reward!
At 26 years old, Patrik Laine has accumulated 204 goals and 184 assists (388 points) in 480 career NHL games. Recent years have been rather disappointing, but he could have a fresh start elsewhere. The end was catastrophic with the Jets, and not very glorious with the Blue Jackets. The next team might also be taking a big risk, but there are only two years left on his contract. If his performance doesn't meet expectations, he will find himself among the cheap players on the free agent market, likely signing a one or two-year discounted contract.
It's known that the Canadiens are desperately searching for that top-6 forward. If he's unable to improve this option, Kent Hughes could miss the playoffs once again. At the same time, the Gorton-Hughes plan seems to be taking shape. The hopes of seeing a winning team in Montreal in the future appear increasingly real.
A case to follow.
Credit: Marqueur
Échange impliquant Patrik Laine et le Canadien de Montréal: Il y a du nouveau
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