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Patrik Laine’s potential trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets has become a big point of speculation in the NHL recently. TSN’s Pierre LeBrun recently reported that Laine and the Blue Jackets have mutually agreed to seek a trade. However, Laine’s situation is complicated by his participation in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program since January due to mental health issues. If you’re a rebuilding team like Chicago or San Jose, would you try bringing in Patrik Laine?@johnscott_32 wonders if he would be a good influence for the young players in the room.Where does he land? pic.twitter.com/ILlSV2giAY— Dropping the Gloves (@dropping_gloves) June 14, 2024 As of June 30, The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline noted that the Blue Jackets have not been informed if Laine has been cleared from the program. This uncertainty makes it challenging for interested teams to move forward without first speaking with Laine about his status and readiness.Despite these complications, there is notable interest in Laine from several teams. TSN’s Craig Button suggested that the Minnesota Wild could be an ideal destination for Laine, as he could thrive alongside a playmaking center, an opportunity he lacked in Columbus, as noted by Bleacher Report’s Lyle Richardson.Similarly, Geoff Baker from The Seattle Times linked Laine to the Seattle Kraken, viewing him as a high-upside gamble for the low-scoring team. Baker emphasized that Laine’s contract, with two years remaining at an $8.7 million annual cap hit, would not tie the Kraken to a long-term commitment, making him an attractive short-term option.”There’s probably a market there, but it’s hard for me to believe they can make the hockey trade they want to make.”@Aportzline shares why Patrik Laine didn’t work out for #CBJ and why it would be difficult to move him with @mattymar89.LIVE ⤵️📺 https://t.co/SqK7M993Jz pic.twitter.com/Eqyj1xrEJf— Sportsnet 590 The FAN (@FAN590) June 26, 2024 However, any immediate trade for Laine seems unlikely until he is cleared from the player assistance program and teams have had the chance to discuss his situation directly with him, Richardson pointed out. The substantial cap hit associated with his contract could also deter potential suitors, especially those wary of his ability to return to top form. While the speculation around Laine’s future continues, the reality of a trade may remain distant until more clarity is provided regarding his mental health and readiness to play.Photo Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
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