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Patrik Laine will make the second fresh start of his career in Montreal.
The Columbus Blue Jackets traded the winger and a 2026 second-round pick to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for defenseman Jordan Harris.
Laine has two seasons at a cap hit of $8.7 million remaining on his contract prior to the trade. According to Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, the Blue Jackets will not retain any of Laine's salary.
The trade was celebrated by Canadiens fans on social media:
Laine is looking to rebound after missing significant time for a third straight season in Columbus.