Patrik Laine's NHL hopes dwindle as another potential suitor pulls out

The denial cools speculation that had been gaining steam across social media this week.

The chatter started on September 15, when Finnish reporter Aki Nieminen, citing Urheilucast's Esko Seppänen, posted that Laine had met with Anaheim.

The post also claimed general manager Pat Verbeel would finalize Cutter Gauthier's contract before turning to the veteran winger. Cavanagh's report indicates the Ducks are not moving toward a Laine signing.

Laine is an unrestricted free agent after his four-year contract with the Montreal Canadiens expired.

The 28-year-old appeared in just five games last season while dealing with injuries and did not play during the Canadiens' playoff run. He still carries name value as the second overall pick in 2016 and a former 44-goal scorer.

Other teams have been linked instead. NHL Trade Rumors, citing Ottawa Citizen reporter Bruce Garrioch, listed the Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida Panthers, Dallas Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning and Ottawa Senators as interested clubs. Laine has reportedly been training in south Florida while camps open around the league.

For Anaheim, the update brings clarity as the season approaches. Cavanagh has covered the Ducks for The Sporting Tribune since 2024, watching the club climb from rebuild to contention, so his read carries weight with fans.

A low-cost flyer on a proven shooter would have been an easy story to believe, but the club is not exploring one.

Laine remains one of the most intriguing names left on the open market. With the regular season only weeks away, a decision on Laine could come soon.

Whichever team lands him will be betting on a big shot and a long injury history, and Anaheim now looks like a spectator. Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops.

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