Major Trade Scenario Surfaces For Columbus Blue Jackets Star

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Hunter Bowman
December 15, 2023 (1:21 PM)

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Patrik Laine showcased his scoring prowess for the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday night, but an unfortunate injury added to his frustration in what has been a challenging season for both him and the team.

Recent discussions suggest that the first-round pick is less than content with his situation in Columbus, particularly given the rocky start to the 2023-24 season. Laine faced setbacks, missing nine games due to a concussion and an additional three games with an illness. The low point occurred on Nov. 19 when he was a healthy scratch, an experience he labeled as

"the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to me."

Lingering bitterness from that incident was evident last week, with The Athletic's Eric Duhatschek observing Laine's seeming indifference on the ice. There were even speculations about potential lingering symptoms from his concussion or a need for a confidence boost. Duhatschek suggested a bold scenario where the Washington Capitals could acquire Laine as a potential successor to Alex Ovechkin, potentially reigniting his goal-scoring prowess.

«That supreme, almost-Ovechkin-like confidence Laine once had in his ability to score goals seems as if it's completely disappeared. Could landing in Washington, as potentially Ovechkin's successor, be the change of venue that he needs? Hard to say. Maybe it would.»

However, Bruce Garrioch from the Ottawa Sun expressed skepticism about a Laine trade, citing his contract as a significant hurdle. Laine is under contract until 2025-26, with an average annual value of $8.7 million and a 10-team no-trade clause.

«There has been talk that Laine may be traded but, let's be clear, he has never asked to be moved. His deal runs through the 2025-26 campaign and, unless the Jackets are willing to eat a portion of the contract, then there's no chance Laine is going anywhere,» wrote Garrioch.

Laine's return to top form is crucial for Columbus if they aim to reclaim their status as a top contender. While his recent goal in the 6-5 overtime win against the Toronto Maple Leafs offered hope, an upper-body injury preventing him from finishing the game raises concerns about his ongoing challenges.

Source: Hockeyfeed