There has been plenty of chatter linking the Toronto Maple Leafs to Patrik Laine. That’s getting pretty old by now.
So, the conversation here has shifted from "should the Maple Leafs sign Laine" to actually acting on it. And the fact is that Toronto has a surprisingly easy decision to make on the matter.
The simplicity in the call lies in what sort of deal the Leafs should offer Laine. If the former second-overall pick is willing to sign a short-term deal, then the Maple Leafs should go for it.
If Laine’s camp is dead set on getting a multi-year deal close to the one he got in Columbus, that’s an easy no.
The decision hinges on Laine being a massive question mark. He’s clearly declined since last playing a full season in 2018-19. That was almost a decade ago.
Laine had a couple of productive years in Columbus, topping 20 goals twice, but then completely fell off the radar with various injuries and a stint in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
His 20-goal season with the Montreal Canadiens two seasons ago was not enough to revive his career. Now, Laine is staring at the prospect of a one-year show-me deal or a Professional Tryout (PTO). That’s where the Maple Leafs need to draw the line. Signing the 28-year-old to a multi-year deal is a terrible idea. The likelihood of the deal flunking is much higher than working out. That’s why no NHL team in their right mind would take a multi-year chance on Laine at this point in his career.
Maple Leafs could afford short-term deal
Now, if we’re talking about a short-term deal, that’s something the Maple Leafs could afford. A short-term deal like a one-year incentive-laden contract would make sense for all sides. Laine has to come to grips with the fact that he can’t really demand a multi-year deal. In fact, getting a shot with the Leafs could be just what he needs.
A solid, bounce-back year could help Laine prove he’s still got some tread left on his tires. In that case, he could come back next summer and get something akin to a three or even four-year deal.
Toronto should pass on long-term commitment to Patrik Laine
On the whole, the Maple Leafs should pass on a long-term commitment to Patrik Laine. His career trajectory shows that he’s good for a couple of seasons, and then runs into trouble.
That’s why committing to anything beyond one season is just a bad idea. Every organization in the NHL knows that. The Canadiens had to sweep Laine under the rug this past season just because no one wanted to take his contract on.
Make no mistake. Laine is still a talented player. He still has a great shot and could be a menace on the power play. If he can get past his lackadaisical defensive play and stay healthy, Laine could become a solid middle-six forward for a contending team.
Those are all major ifs at this point, unfortunately.
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