5 Teams: Laine’s “Injury” Opens Door to Unique, Low-Risk UFA Deal

When healthy and engaged, Patrik Laine remains one of the NHL’s most dangerous goal scorers. Yet after another injury-plagued season with the Montreal Canadiens, his value entering free agency is difficult to gauge. Pierre LeBrun reported that because Laine spent an extended period on injured reserve during the 2025-26 season, he is now eligible to sign a bonus-laden contract featuring a lower base salary.

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Laine confirmed he wasn’t injured at the end of the season. Still, there was an incentive for Laine to stay on IR, as he will now be able to sign a contract more appealing to teams.

The bonus-laden contract structure would allow teams to minimize financial risk while rewarding Laine if he returns to his previous scoring form. It is a unique opportunity that could make him one of the more appealing low-risk, high-reward free agents available this summer. For teams seeking scoring depth on the wing, Laine suddenly becomes a much more attractive option.

Oilers Could Be a Logical Cup-Chasing Destination

The Edmonton Oilers stand out as a potential fit if the financials make sense. Edmonton has spent years searching for affordable top-six scoring support behind Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

A bonus-heavy contract could allow the Oilers to add Laine without committing major guaranteed money. His elite shot would immediately provide another dangerous weapon on the power play and could thrive alongside one of Edmonton’s star centers.

The challenge, however, remains cap management. The Oilers still have other priorities to address this offseason and cannot afford another expensive gamble. If Laine is willing to accept a lower base salary with performance incentives, Edmonton becomes a realistic landing spot. If not, the fit becomes far more difficult.

Kings Looking for Additional Offense

The Los Angeles Kings have consistently searched for more scoring punch on the wing. While they boast a strong defensive structure, offensive production has occasionally been an issue in key playoff moments.

There was incentive for Laine to stay on IR though as he will now be able to sign a bonus laden contract as a UFA with a lower base salary which will make him more appealing to teams. https://t.co/89CpZqjsyE

— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) June 1, 2026

Adding Laine on a low-risk contract could provide the type of game-breaking scoring ability they have lacked. A healthy Laine could flourish in a sheltered offensive role while the Kings continue pursuing a deeper playoff run.

Sharks Could Offer a Fresh Start

The rebuilding San Jose Sharks are another intriguing possibility.

San Jose is looking to surround its young core with proven NHL talent, and Laine could benefit from playing in a lower-pressure environment while rebuilding his value. The Sharks have cap space to absorb a bonus-heavy contract and could offer him significant offensive opportunities.

For both sides, it could be the ultimate prove-it partnership.

Senators Need More Top-Six Depth

The Ottawa Senators continue searching for ways to elevate their forward group. While their core is largely established, additional scoring depth remains a priority.

Laine would bring a skill set few players possess. If Ottawa believes its medical staff and coaching group can help him stay healthy and productive, a short-term incentive-based deal could make considerable sense.

Penguins Could Roll the Dice

The Pittsburgh Penguins are in a difficult position as they attempt to remain competitive while their veteran core ages.

A player like Laine offers upside without requiring a lengthy commitment. Playing alongside elite playmakers could help him rediscover the scoring touch that once made him one of the league’s most feared snipers.

A Low-Risk Bet Worth Making

Laine’s next contract may look very different than his previous deals. Thanks to his eligibility for performance bonuses, teams can now structure contracts that limit risk while preserving substantial upside.

For clubs seeking affordable scoring help, that changes the conversation entirely.

The Oilers, Kings, Sharks, Senators, and Penguins all make varying degrees of sense. If Laine’s primary goal is chasing a Stanley Cup, Edmonton may be the most attractive destination of the group. But any potential deal will ultimately come down to one thing: whether the cap hit is low enough to justify the gamble.

Because if Patrik Laine is willing to bet on himself, several NHL teams may be willing to do the same.

Next: Oilers Could Address Two Needs in Big Deal with the Canadiens