Patrik Laine, the second overall pick in the 2016 NHL Draft, is likely on the move again, with the Utah Hockey Club emerging as an intriguing destination, as proposed Jeff Marek from Sportsnet.
The 26-year-old forward, who was acquired by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the trade that sent Pierre-Luc Dubois to Winnipeg, played in just 18 games this season before being sidelined with a broken collarbone and entering the assistive program. NHL/NHLPA player. .
Patrik Laine “wants a new start” and both sides are working on a trade, according to @PierreVLeBrun pic.twitter.com/1fAbaVm58C
– B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) June 12, 2024
While appearing on The Jeff Marek Show, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that the Blue Jackets have been working on a trade for Laine since early last season.
Utah, with its ample cap space and need for veteran players to support its young talents like Logan Cooley, could be a suitable fit.
Laine’s scoring prowess, evidenced by three 30-plus goal seasons, could provide a significant boost to Utah’s offensive production. Jeff Marek suggested that Utah’s young roster could greatly benefit from having a proven scorer like Laine in their ranks.
Patrik Laine and Martin Neca are looking to start over somewhere else. #NHL pic.twitter.com/B5rUxrmzMb
— David 🏒 (@DaveyUpper) June 13, 2024
However, concerns remain about Laine’s injury history and inconsistent performance.
The Blue Jackets will likely look to get rid of Laine’s entire contract, which could limit his return. They may need to withhold some of his salary or hire an expensive, struggling veteran to facilitate a trade.
Despite these challenges, Laine’s potential to rejuvenate his career in Utah, along with the team’s financial flexibility and strategic needs, keeps this possibility on the radar as the Blue Jackets look to make a significant move this offseason.
During his four seasons with Columbus, the 26-year-old recorded 64 goals and 74 assists for a total of 138 points in 174 games played.
Photo author: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports