Blue Jackets player relieved Patrik Laine is traded
Photo credit: ESPN
Before Patrik Laine was traded to the Montreal Canadiens, he had become a major headache for the Columbus Blue Jackets. It was a significant move for Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell to offload Laine's $8.7 million salary entirely.
If Laine had stayed in Columbus to begin the season, the trade request would've been a huge distraction.
There was the potential for him to skip training camp, and his negative attitude could have affected the younger players in the locker room.
Everyone knew Laine didn't want to be there, and his teammates felt it too.
But now, he has a fresh start with the Canadiens, and we should give him the chance to remake his image.
But now, he has a fresh start with the Canadiens, and we should give him the chance to remake his image.
The tension in Columbus wasn't limited to Laine. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins was also caught up in the situation after requesting a trade, being pushed out by veterans such as Cam Atkinson, Seth Jones, Zach Werenski, and Gustav Nyquist. Out of those names, only Werenski and Merzlikins are still with the team. Safe to say Werenski cracked a quiet smile when Monday's trade news broke.
The Blue Jackets once supported Laine, but they've come to realize that he was the real problem. Kudos to Waddell for coming in and changing the perception.
Now, Laine has the opportunity to rediscover his game in Montreal, where the 26-year-old winger and former 40-goal scorer will be welcomed with open arms. Here's to hoping that a change of scenery brings out the best in the man as a player and a person.
Previously on Hockey OTB
| POLL | ||
21 AOUT | 69 ANSWERS Blue Jackets player relieved Patrik Laine is traded How do you feel about the Blue Jackets trading Patrik Laine? | ||
| Relived | 33 | 47.8 % |
| Mixed Feelings | 28 | 40.6 % |
| Concerned | 8 | 11.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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