Excitement is quietly building in Montreal as whispers of a major contract negotiation begin to swirl around one of the city’s most electrifying hockey talents.

Patrik Laine, the Finnish forward who has already captured the hearts of Canadiens fans, finds himself at the center of a developing story that could shape the team’s future for years to come.

While Laine’s passion for Montreal and his desire to stay are well known, the real intrigue lies in what’s happening behind closed doors between the star player and the Canadiens’ management.

Insiders hint at mutual interest and a willingness to strike a deal, but the specifics remain shrouded in mystery. What are the true numbers being discussed?

How much is Laine willing to sacrifice to remain in the city he loves? And, perhaps most importantly, will Kent Hughes and the Canadiens take the bold step to secure Laine’s services for seasons to come?

As negotiations quietly progress, fans are left wondering if a blockbuster agreement is just around the corner—or if unexpected twists will keep everyone guessing.

The answers, and the fate of one of Montreal’s brightest stars, are coming soon. Don’t miss the full story.

Dec 9, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Patrik Laine (92) looks on during warm-up before a game against the Anaheim Ducks at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We have an interesting development regarding Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine.

The Finnish forward truly wants to stay in Montreal and is fired up for the upcoming season. We know he loves the city, the organization, and the fans, and we know he wants to sign a new contract with the Habs.

He keeps repeating it.

Now, for an NHL contract to be signed, it takes both sides.

Laine wants to sign a new deal with the Canadiens, but is the team ready to accept a new contract offer with Laine?

That’s exactly the topic addressed by the excellent Marco D’Amico on BPM Sports.

On BPM Sports, during his segment titled “Negotiations between Laine and the Habs?”, D’Amico had good news for Laine.

Kent Hughes and the Canadiens would be ready to accept a contract offer with Patrik Laine, depending of course on the demands

Here’s exactly what he said on the subject:

“At the moment, I don’t think these are necessarily very deep negotiations.

But I think it’s clear there’s interest on both sides.

Of course, at $8.7 million, the salary will need to be revised.”

– Marco D’Amico

The key takeaway here is “interest on both sides.”

That means Kent Hughes and the Canadiens’ management are also interested in signing a new contract with Laine.

A strong start to the season could be very rewarding for Laine.

As for the price, D’Amico mentioned a deal of “less than $8.7 million per year,” unsurprisingly, but we already knew Laine is willing to sign in Montreal at a discount because of how much he loves it here.

Around 5 to 6 million per year (as has been suggested), would you be ready to sign Patrik Laine for a few more seasons?