Just coming in to write a couple things.
1 - I was wrong when I wrote that I didn’t think Laine would be acquired by this management. The fact that the CBJ allowed the Habs brass to speak with him before the deal was made is incredible. Shows how little value he had around the league and how much Waddell simply wanted to move on from the contract.
2 - the price that was paid to acquire Laine makes the deal a no brainer. Harris is a serviceable defenseman, but his departure clears up room on a jammed Habs blueline, while ADDING a second round pick for getting the best player in the trade? Phenomenal move.
3 - Kent Hughes is the best GM we’ve had in a very very long time. He takes calculated risks in his trades, while maximizing his cap space to get the best value/return possible. He identifies and gives out fair long term contracts to core players, and drafts talent with an eye for building a decade down the road. Has incredible short, middle and long term vision on how a franchise should be put together.
4 - It feels like Gorton/Hughes/MSL are building something very special here, and players league wide are starting to see Montreal as a premier destination again. The word is out, and guys feel valued here, while appreciating management’s commitment to being welcoming, honest and transparent. It’s wonderful to see as a long suffering Habs fan.
5 - welcome to Montreal, Mr Laine!!!