Last month, Patrik Laine left the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Now, Laine can talk to Columbus and other teams about his future. But so far, only one team has shown interest in him, according to GM Don Waddell.
Current Offseason Challenges:
Waddell isn’t shocked by the lack of interest. “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,” he said. Laine’s situation is well-known: he played just 18 games last season before shoulder surgery in December and entered the assistance program soon after.
Laine used to be a top scorer; two years ago, he had 56 points in 56 games. But last season was rough with only six goals and three assists due to limited playtime.
Fans might wonder if this means Laine’s best days are behind him.
His contract makes things tricky too—$8.7M AAV for two years with $9.1M cash payout each year (minus signing bonuses). Few teams have that cap space available right now. Waddell prefers a pure ‘hockey trade’ but admits they might need to retain some salary: “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.”
With rookie camps approaching in six weeks and execs likely taking breaks before training camps start, it seems like it will take more time for any serious offers on Laine.
What do you think? Should Columbus hold out or make a move soon?
