Patrik Laine on the trade block?: 5 possible landing spots
COLUMBUS, Ohio (BVM) – Patrik Laine was once viewed as one of the best young players in the NHL. He started off his career with three straight 30-goal seasons, including scoring 44 goals as a 19-year-old. Laine’s play has stalled since his trade to the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2021.
The Finnish winger only played in 18 games this season before entering the league’s player assistance program. Now according to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, Columbus and Laine have a mutual interest in moving on.
Laine’s contract may be a concern as he is still owed $17.4 million over the next two years. The Blue Jackets will either have to retain a decent chunk to receive anything valuable or take on another shaky contract.
Despite the negatives, he is still 26 years old and it is easy to think that he can once again return to being a 30-goal scorer. These are the teams who may take a gamble on him.
