On Friday, Columbus forward Patrik Laine opted out of the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, paving the path for his return to the rink and the trade market.
Laine, who was moved by the Blue Jackets to Columbus before the 2021 season, is said to have requested a way out of town.
Prior to suffering a fractured collarbone on December 14 during a victory over the Maple Leafs, Laine finished the previous season with six goals and nine points in 18 games.
Just over a month later, he entered the Player Assistance Program.
Earlier this week, new Columbus general manager Don Waddell told the Dispatch that a trade would likely be worked out before the new season begins.
Per the Columbus Dispatch: A big holdup in trade talks, according to Waddell, was Laine’s inability to speak with him or opposing GMs while in the NHL/NHLPA program.
Laine has two more seasons remaining on his contract with an annual cap hit of $8.7 million.
Simply because of finances, the Florida Panthers would not be a team in the running for Laine’s services although he has been doing some training in South Florida — and has some pretty good relationships within the organization.
Sasha Barkov is one of Laine’s best friends, and he knows Florida’s other Finnish players such as Eetu Luostarinen, Anton Lundell, and Niko Mikkola.
Laine’s best two seasons in the NHL came in his first four seasons when he scored 138 goals for the Jets under coach Paul Maurice.
Still, do not bet on Laine joining the Panthers anytime soon.
Someday, perhaps, just not now.
Laine just turned 26, so, he still has plenty of hockey remaining.
He will be a free agent in two seasons.
