Canadiens Insider Casts Doubt on Patrik Laine’s Playoff Future Amid Contract Challenges
Montreal Canadiens insider Eric Engels suggests Patrik Laine is unlikely to play in the upcoming NHL Playoffs unless the team faces a significant injury crisis. Laine’s substantial contract and its cap implications were reportedly a major hurdle in potential trade deadline deals, leaving him in Montreal until the summer. Despite his professional conduct in practice, the team’s tight cap situation and upcoming bonus payments make his return improbable for their playoff run against teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning.