Once again, Patrik Laine has been among the hot topics this offseason. Following a tough season where the Finnish forward was limited to only 18 games because of injuries and his time in the Player Assistance Program, there's very little doubt about his ability to get back into NHL shape and play an important role for an organization. However, that won't be with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
A few weeks ago, the Blue Jackets' new general manager, Don Waddell, stated in an interview on TSN that Laine wants a fresh start. He also said that he will take time to explore all his options:
Speaking of options, the renowned insider Eklund revealed in a recent report that five teams are still involved in trade rumors to land the 6'5" beast: the Chicago Blackhawks, Carolina Hurricanes, New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings, and Utah HC.
In the insider's own words:
Acquiring Laine in a trade would come with a high price, but it could pay off a lot more in the future.
Despite everything that has happened since the start of his NHL career, he remains a very good hockey player. Getting a fresh start could help him get his career back on track.
Source: TSNWaddell on Laine trade talks: 'He would like a fresh start someplace'
Source for Patrik Laine's statistics: Hockey DBPatrik Laine
POLL | ||
11 AOUT | 293 ANSWERS Insider shares the five teams rumoured to be making a push for Patrik Laine Do you think the Columbus Blue Jackets will trade Patrik Laine before the start of the 2024-25 NHL season? | ||
Yes | 221 | 75.4 % |
No | 72 | 24.6 % |
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