Don Waddell reveals exactly how many teams have asked about Patrik Laine

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Josh Tupper
August 2, 2024 (8:26 PM)

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Columbus Blue Jackets Struggling to Find Trade Partners for Patrik Laine

Patrik Laine has long been the subject of trade rumors, but despite exiting the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program last week, interest in the Finnish forward remains limited. Teams are now allowed to communicate with Laine, yet the Columbus Blue Jackets are reportedly finding it challenging to generate trade interest.

Columbus Blue Jackets General Manager Don Waddell recently commented on the situation, noting that the market for Laine is surprisingly quiet. Despite the opportunity to engage in trade talks, Waddell stated that only one team has reached out to discuss a potential deal involving Laine, and no significant progress has been made.

"At this time of the year, people are less responsive. So, I don't really know. I think it's going to play out for a while."

Waddell explained the potential financial implications of moving Laine:

"We might end up eating some money. If I wanted to eat half, I could've traded him by now, but that's not my first choice."

This suggests that the Blue Jackets are reluctant to retain a significant portion of Laine's salary, making it more challenging to facilitate a trade.

The 26-year-old forward endured a tough 2023-24 season, appearing in only 18 games due to injury and personal challenges. Laine's season was disrupted by an upper-body injury in December, followed by a setback in January from a fractured clavicle. Shortly after, he entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, sidelining him for the remainder of the season.

During his limited time on the ice, Laine managed to record nine points (six goals, three assists), six penalty minutes, and a minus-ten rating. These struggles have undoubtedly impacted his trade value, contributing to the lack of interest from other teams.

Whether Patrik Laine remains with the Columbus Blue Jackets or finds a new home in the NHL, he is undoubtedly motivated to prove his critics wrong. Laine has previously demonstrated his potential as a prolific scorer, with multiple 30+ goal seasons in his career. His talent is undeniable, and a return to form could reignite interest from teams across the league.

For the Blue Jackets, navigating Laine's trade situation presents a complex challenge. Balancing financial considerations with the need to maximize return value requires strategic maneuvering from Waddell and his team. As the 2024-25 season approaches, the outcome of this situation will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.

Patrik Laine's future remains uncertain as the Columbus Blue Jackets explore their options. While trade interest is currently limited, the potential for Laine to regain his scoring touch makes him an intriguing asset. Whether in Columbus or elsewhere, Laine's journey will be one to watch as he seeks to reestablish himself as a top-tier goal scorer in the NHL.

Source: Yardbarker
Blue Jackets GM: Only one team has expressed interest in Patrik Laine