Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine is entering the off-season as one of the NHL's most interesting pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs). While he was limited to only five games this season due to injury, he should generate some interest if he hits the market on July 1. 

Now, the Canadiens forward is being viewed as a potential free agent target for a team in the Metropolitan Division.

In a recent article for The Athletic, Peter Baugh named Laine as one of several potential free agent targets for the New York Rangers this off-season. 

"There are flaws in his game, especially on defense, but perhaps he could be a buy-low, high-ceiling option for the Rangers," Baugh wrote about Laine. 

With the Rangers needing another scoring winger, it could make sense for them to take a gamble on a forward like Laine. If he bounced back and stayed healthy after getting a fresh start, he could be a solid addition to the Rangers' roster. 

When looking at the Rangers' current roster, there are clear spots to fight for in their top six. Their depth on the wing is weak, so Laine could have a realistic shot of playing on their second line if signed. He would also be a clear candidate for their power play, as he shines on the man advantage.

It will be interesting to see if the Rangers end up making a push for the Canadiens forward this summer from here.