Patrik Laine's NHL future uncertain as free agency period nears its end

The NHL career of Finnish forward Patrik Laine hangs in the balance as the free agency period draws to a close, with reports suggesting the 28-year-old may have to settle for a professional tryout (PTO) contract. This situation marks a significant downturn for a player once considered a top prospect with immense potential.

Sources close to the league indicate that securing a guaranteed contract at this point is unlikely for Laine. An anonymous NHL insider told HS that they would be surprised if Laine received a guaranteed deal, adding that it represents an "unbelievable collapse" for a player who was once heavily hyped. The insider suggested that Laine might need to accept a PTO, a contract that allows a player to attend training camp and play in preseason games to earn a regular contract.

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I would be surprised if he gets a guaranteed contract at this stage.

Laine's last NHL appearance was on October 17, 2025, playing for the Montreal Canadiens. The upcoming NHL season will feature an 84-game regular season, leading to a condensed training camp and fewer preseason games. This reduced timeframe makes it even more challenging for PTO players to showcase their abilities and secure a contract.

Beyond the immediate contract situation, Laine has previously spoken about struggling with motivation and even contemplating retirement during difficult periods in recent years. While he has earned substantial career earnings, his public image does not suggest a player eager to play in lower-tier leagues like the AHL or in Europe should his NHL door close. The uncertainty surrounding his future raises questions about whether he will play professionally again.

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It looks like he will have to take a PTO contract. Quite an unbelievable collapse for a player of that talent, who was sometimes hyped so much.