Here's why Patrik Laine wants out of Winnipeg

Patrik Laine has been in the news recently, for what seems to be all the wrong reasons. After a season that saw the Finnish sniper criticized by his head coach on multiple occasions, we've recently reported Laine would prefer to be traded. Here's why...

Laine has asked to be traded because he doesn't feel like he's been given a fair shot to succeed in Winnipeg. He's regularly playing with 2nd and 3rd line centers, and has never been given regular ice time with Jets superstar, Mark Scheifele.

Laine will make $6.75 million next season, his last before becoming a restricted free-agent. The former second-overall pick enjoyed himself a fine season in 2019-2020, finishing the year with 63 points in 68 games, and considering who he played with, those are big numbers.

Just imagine what the one-time 44 goal scorer could do if he took a regular shift with a first-line center? 

Laine and his agent are asking the same question. 

Photo credit:  Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire

Elliotte Friedman: “There’s a legit chance (a Patrik Laine trade) happens. Columbus is in there, but is there a match? Same with Carolina. Two teams that could do it: Los Angeles and Philadelphia. I’m just not sure they would. I also wonder about the Islanders.“ #GoJetsGo #CBJ

— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) September 30, 2020