Patrik Laine trade: new development announced by Aaron Portzline
Journalist Aaron Portzline from Columbus has just announced a new development in the Patrik Laine trade situation.
This will resonate with those who believe that even though Laine has clearly requested a trade, he might not be leaving Columbus as soon as expected.
Portzline, one of the most reliable and respected journalists in the NHL, has just published the following update:
The Blue Jackets aren't receiving many calls for Patrik Laine
Here is his exact statement:
It's a quiet period in the NHL, of course.»
- Aaron Portzline
Laine is still expected to be traded before the start of the season, but it might take a few more weeks.
Patrik Laine, a 6-foot-5, 215-pound forward, was drafted 2nd overall in 2016 by the Winnipeg Jets (just behind Auston Matthews). He has amassed 388 points in 480 NHL games, including 204 goals.
This is a situation to watch closely, especially for Montreal Canadiens fans, as it seems Kent Hughes might have some interest in Laine.
However, his annual salary of $8.7 million, which is valid for two more seasons, is a stumbling block for several teams.
It's becoming increasingly clear that Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell may have to retain a portion of Laine's salary in the trade to make it work.
At $5 or $6 million per year, the Finnish forward could definitely help a team looking to add some offensive "punch."
| POLL | ||
Would you trade Christian Dvorak and a 2nd-round pick for Patrik Laine at $6 million per year? | ||
| Yes | 620 | 82 % |
| No | 136 | 18 % |
| List of polls | ||
