NHL: Montreal Canadiens at Columbus Blue Jackets - Source: Imagn — Canadiens’ Patrik Laine trade has ex-NHLer Ryan Whitney examining the unpredictability of left winger (Image Credit: Imagn)

Canadiens’ Patrik Laine trade has ex-NHLer Ryan Whitney examining the unpredictability of left winger

Modified Aug 20, 2024 16:02 GMT

Patrik Laine was traded to the Montreal Canadiens on Monday. He was tabbed as a player who could use a change of scenery, and that's what he got with this deal. He's a talented player, but one former NHL player focused on the unpredictability that comes with Laine.

Ryan Whitney, who played for the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers, said on the Spittin' Chiclets podcast that it wasn't a shocking move since Laine was able to talk to other teams.

He added:

"He and his agent did talk to Kent Hughes in Montreal, and they were obviously satisfied with the discussion on where he's at mentally and physically. The Canadiens traded Jordan Harris from Montreal along with a second-rounder. I believe Montreal got a second-rounder in return, basically to take that cap hit off Columbus's hands."

Whitney admitted that Laine's contract could be costly but the Canadiens are deep on defense with a lot of prospects. He noted that he loves the move overall. The Canadiens do need goal-scoring and size, which Laine can bring. However, he doesn't believe it will be entirely sunny:

"Now, Laine can be such a dog and so lazy at times. There are moments when you're like, 'What the hell is this guy doing?' But if he's focused and determined and he's feeling it... If he gets 35 goals, would anyone be that surprised? At least I wouldn't be."

As long as Laine locks in, Whitney foresees a great year. That just might be a big qualifier that is cause for concern.

Blue Jackets GM grants Patrik Laine's request

Patrik Laine made a trade request to leave the Columbus Blue Jackets. That was something that GM Don Waddell acknowledged in his statement after the trade, though his choice of words was interesting.

He said that the team wants players who actually want to be on the team, and Laine made it clear that he wanted a change of scenery. Waddell added, via NHL:

"We were able to acquire a good young player in Jordan Harris while maintaining financial flexibility in this deal which was very important to us. We wish Patrik all the best."

The Blue Jackets got some financial cap space and a 2026 second-round pick in return as well.