Laine's PP Boom Gives Hughes Kings Leverage
Kent Hughes holds all the cards with Patrik Laine's lethal power-play shot back in play after the Olympic break, and the Los Angeles Kings just stepped up as a serious suitor. Laine's $8.7 million cap hit looks like a steal for a team needing that elite trigger pull in the top nine, especially since Montreal aims to shed salary for a playoff push. Whispers from front offices suggest multiple clubs inquired pre-break, but LA's interest carries real weight with just 11 days to the deadline.
Related Coverage

DeSmith Dishes on Olympic Break, USA Gold

Stars' Rantanen Out 2 Weeks After Olympic Injury

Boston Bruins insider slams Team Canada forward Sam Bennett for goalie hit

Avs Land $11M Ex-Oiler Vet to Shore Up D
Washe Returns to Ducks Lineup

Sharks’ Olympic Round-Up, Day 7: Kurashev, Wennberg Advance to Quarterfinals
San Jose Hockey Now
Submit your questions for Live From the Blue Seats
Blue Seat Blogs
The Daily: Top-Ranked CHL Teams Rely On Red Wings Draftees; NHL Trade Rumors
Detroit Hockey Now
Bruins’ Pastrnak Scores; Four Players Still Competing for Gold
Boston Hockey Now