Minnesota GM reportedly planning discussions with Patrik Laine
Photo credit: Winnipeg Free Press
As trade discussions around Patrik Laine, Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell may soon have a deal after reports suggest the player is scheduled for a call from the Minnesota Wild.
It is no secret Patrik Laine is a fair-weather forward. When he is in top shape, he can compete with the best of them. When he is unwell, he becomes a major liability and is best left off the ice. Laine took the advice himself, entering the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program last season.
"Patrik Laine is entering the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, and will be out indefinitely."
Luckily, after the end of the season, Laine had received clearance from the program and was free to get back to work. However, with his availability, Colombus Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell was expected to use the 26-year-old forward in a blockbuster trade deal. However, given his high costs, little progress has been made.
"Waddell has said he'd like to make a 'hockey trade' involving Laine. That is, he'd like to acquire a lineup regular as part of a return package without having to retain a significant portion of Laine's salary, although a deal is likely more difficult to swing this deep in the off-season, with many clubs already settled on their rosters."
Now, after reports linked him to several different teams, a new possible home has emerged from the NHL's Central Division. Patrik Laine is expected to be receiving a call from the Minnesota Wild general manager Bill Guerin.
"It is expected that Wild GM Bill Guerin will reach out to Laine at some point to discuss his interest in playing in Minnesota."
Though a dialogue has yet to begin between both parties, this could be a good landing spot for Laine. Minnesota has struggled to put up a strong performance and with a skilled forward, they could increase their chances should they clear enough cap space. Whether or not he decides to join the Wild, hopefully, Patrik Laine will be back on the top of his game in the upcoming season.
Source: TSN
Report: Wild could have interest in F Laine
Report: Wild could have interest in F Laine
| POLL | ||
6 AOUT | 72 ANSWERS Minnesota GM reportedly planning discussions with Patrik Laine Would Columbus GM Don Waddell consider a Patrik Laine trade with the Minnesota Wild? | ||
| Yes | 53 | 73.6 % |
| No | 19 | 26.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
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