NHL trade rumor: Toronto Maple Leafs could explore a low-risk move for Patrik Laine this offseason

The Toronto Maple Leafs could explore a low-risk move this offseason, with reports suggesting that the club is planning to move former 40-goal scorer Patrik Laine as free agency approaches. Reports are suggesting that the Maple Leafs could emerge as a surprise landing spot for winger Patrik Laine when NHL free agency opens on July 1.

As Laine is expected to leave the Montreal Canadiens after his contract expires, speculation is growing that Toronto may view the former 40-goal scorer as a low-risk gamble during a crucial offseason. According to reports, his last contract was 4 years, worth of $34.8 million with a cap hit of $8.7 million per season, and it expired at the end of the 2025-26 season.

Toronto Maple Leafs linked to low-risk gamble on former 40-goal scorer Patrik Laine

The Toronto Maple Leafs are planning to explore a low-risk and highly-rewarding move this offseason, with reports linking that they are approaching 40-goal scorer Patrik Laine as free agency approaches.

According to recent speculation highlighted by The Big Lead, Toronto may consider taking a chance on Laine if the veteran winger reaches the open market on July 1. Reports suggest that the idea has stemmed from previous discussions between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens involving Laine before the trade deadline, though no deal has materialized so far.


Meanwhile, Adam Wylde suggested that Laine’s injury reserve could create a unique contract opportunity for interested teams, “If you can sign 28, 29-year-old Patrick Laine and his base salary is a million, but it could maybe go up to five if he scores 40 goals and plays 60 games, I think a lot of teams would take that chance. It’s a good opportunity to go get some cheap goal scoring. If I’m Chayka, I’d do it,” he added.

Previously, the 28-year-old player’s career has been marked by setbacks. He appeared in only a handful of games during the 2025-26 season due to his injury issues, raising questions about his durability and long-term fit.

But, as the Maple Leafs' quest for offensive depth continues in order to reshape their roster under new management, a low-cost deal for Patrik Laine would benefit the team much more than a major financial commitment.

It is to be noted that the Maple Leafs finished 32-36-14 and missed the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade, triggering major organizational changes and an aggressive roster retool, which is why they are in search of a head coach and good players as well who can bring back the lost glory.