Patrik Laine is no longer Martin St-Louis' concern, but his uncertain Canadiens exit continues to follow him through NHL free agency.
The former Montreal winger remains unsigned deep into the summer, with teams reportedly waiting for stronger answers about his health, conditioning and desire to continue his NHL career.
Laine appeared in only 5 games last season before undergoing core-muscle surgery. He later returned to practice, yet never worked his way back into Montreal's lineup.
That ending created questions. Laine said he was ready to play “pretty soon after New Year's,” while the Canadiens kept him out during their playoff run.
Montreal has moved ahead without him. St-Louis has a younger, faster group, and management no longer needs to create a roster spot or power-play role for Laine.
The pressure now shifts completely onto the 28-year-old winger. His shot remains dangerous, but clubs need proof that the rest of his game can handle regular top-six deployment.
Laine may need to earn his next contract
A guaranteed NHL contract might not arrive before training camps open.
It's quite clear who Laine will end up with, and it's any club on the hunt for a good deal.
One reported possibility is a professional tryout, allowing a team to evaluate Laine through practices and preseason games.
That route would represent a sharp fall for a player who once scored 44 goals and carried one of hockey's most feared releases.
But Laine's 2024-25 work in Montreal showed his remaining value. He scored 20 goals, including 15 on the power play, giving the Canadiens a weapon from the flank.
His challenge is convincing teams that he offers more than a specialized role. Controlled entries, pace and five-on-five involvement will matter as much as his one-timer.
Several clubs could use another shooter, but interest won't automatically produce a contract. Laine's next opportunity may depend on what teams see when he reports in person.
For Laine, training camp could become more than preparation. It could decide whether his NHL career receives another real chapter.
Should an NHL team give Patrik Laine a guaranteed contract?
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