Patrik Laine’s transfer is official and unfortunately the Los Angeles Kings are missing out on the sniper.
The lottery was won by the Montreal Canadiens.
The Columbus Blue Jackets wanted to close the deal as quickly as possible, and when the Canadiens showed interest, the deal was done.
The Blue Jackets also gave up a 2026 second-round draft pick as part of the deal, as the Canadiens take over Laine’s entire $8.7 million contract. In return, Montreal parted ways with defenceman Jordan Harris, who will join Columbus.
The Kings likely couldn’t have made this deal work due to Laine’s cap hit. However, if the Blue Jackets had been willing to retain some of his AAV, LA might have had a chance.
Unfortunately they were unable to acquire Laine and are now looking for reinforcements for their team.
