As the anniversary of one of the most talked-about trades in recent Montreal Canadiens history approaches, fans and analysts alike are revisiting the dramatic exchange that sent shockwaves through the NHL.

The deal between the Canadiens and Columbus Blue Jackets, finalized last August, seemed routine at first—but its true impact has only become clear with the passage of time.

What appeared to be a simple swap of assets has, according to insiders, completely reshaped the trajectory of both franchises.

In the months since, whispers about the hidden consequences of this transaction have grown louder. Some call it a masterstroke, others a costly miscalculation. But what really happened behind the scenes?

How did a single move change the fate of two teams—and potentially alter the playoff race in ways few could have predicted? The answers aren’t as straightforward as they seem.

With new revelations surfacing and experts weighing in, the trade is now being hailed as a pivotal moment, not just for the Canadiens, but for the entire league.

What secret chain of events did this deal set in motion? And why are so many calling it a “hockey lesson” for the ages? Dive in to uncover the full story behind this game-changing move.

Photo of Canadiens and Jackets

Photo credit: NHL

It will soon be exactly one year since the Montreal Canadiens and the Columbus Blue Jackets completed their major trade involving Patrik Laine.

On August 19th of last year, Kent Hughes indeed acquired Laine and a 2026 second-round pick in exchange for young defenseman Jordan Harris.

One year later, it’s fair to call it a “trade that changed everything,” according to player agent David Ettedgui.

“By giving up Laine and a 2026 second-round pick, Columbus didn’t just do the Canadiens a favor. Through an unexpected chain reaction, the Blue Jackets sacrificed their own playoff spot last year.”

– David Ettedgui

No doubt about it!

As David clearly points out, the Blue Jackets were only two points behind the Montreal Canadiens in the race for a playoff spot.

If they had had Patrik Laine in their lineup-and if the Canadiens hadn’t-would Columbus have clinched that playoff spot to face the Washington Capitals?

A stroke of genius by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens with Patrik Laine

There’s no other way to put it.

“It’s a true hockey lesson. A big bravo to Kent Hughes and the Canadiens organization for this brilliant move.”

– David Ettedgui

See his full explanation:

A transaction that changed everything: The hidden impact of the Laine trade

The trade sending Patrik Laine to the Montreal Canadiens from the Columbus Blue Jackets has sparked much debate, but a crucial point seems to have escaped most analysts.

By trading Laine and a second-round pick in 2026, Columbus didn’t just do the Canadiens a favor. Through an unexpected ripple effect, the Blue Jackets sacrificed their own playoff spot last year. Without the points contributed by Laine, the Canadiens would not have made the playoffs, and it was the Blue Jackets, with only a two-point deficit, who would have secured the final ticket.

This trade cost Columbus dearly. In addition to losing a productive player and a high draft pick, the team gave up playoff revenue and the valuable development of its young players in the heat of playoff action. Worse still, it allowed a direct competitor within their own conference to gain the momentum needed to transition from a rebuilding team to a playoff contender.

It’s a true hockey lesson. A big congratulations to Kent Hughes and the Canadiens organization for this brilliant maneuver.

The upcoming season promises to be exciting for all CH fans!

Making the playoffs is huge for helping a young team take the next step, it’s huge for young players gaining invaluable experience, and it’s very attractive from an ownership standpoint.

Patrik Laine, 27 years old, ultimately tallied 33 points in 52 games with the Canadiens in 2024-25.

Jordan Harris, 25 years old, ultimately recorded 5 points in 33 games with the Blue Jackets in 2024-25.

Yes, this is possibly THE trade that allowed the Canadiens to make the playoffs and turn the corner in their rebuild.