Rumor: Patrik Laine Not Interested in Long-Term Deal in Columbus

The Columbus Blue Jackets appear to have some interest to lock forward Patrik Laine up long-term, however Laine's recent comments out of Finland seem to indicate he's only interested in a one or two-year deal.

The 23-year-old sniper is coming off a contract where he was making $6.75 million and is set to receive a raise on his annual salary. Last season Laine had an up and down campaign as it wasn't easy for him to transition out of Winnipeg and into John Tortorella's system. 

The Blue Jackets have a new head coach who Laine is familiar with so perhaps next season will be different. The team is hoping he can improve on his 10 goals in 45 games in Columbus last season and get back to his 40-goal capabilities.

Patrik Laine: "Columbus has my rights and I would like to continue there. There is an opinion on the length of a possible agreement, but I will not say more about it. Nowadays, even a signature can be made remotely, even on a mobile phone..." (Translation by @Asdfghj1321) #CBJ

— CBJ Coverage (@CBJcoverage) July 7, 2021

Look for the new short-term contract to be signed in the next couple of weeks as the Blue Jackets are going to be busy this offseason. They have three first-round picks at the draft and are looking to make a huge splash this summer.

Photo crdit:  Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports