Blue Jackets Rumors: Patrik Laine Linked to Kraken

Patrik Laine is looking for a change of scenery, and the Columbus Blue Jackets are working hard to get him just that. It has been a rough tenure for Laine in Columbus, and there is no question that he would benefit from a fresh start at this juncture.

With Laine being a star top-six forward when playing at his best, he is expected to generate interest around the NHL. In a recent episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Elliotte Friedman specifically mentioned the Seattle Kraken as a team to watch in the Laine sweepstakes.

Friedman noted that the Kraken are expected to be very aggressive this offseason, which is understandable given their massive setback in 2023-24. Their scoring issues were a major reason for their poor campaign, and adding a sniper like Laine would have the potential to help change that for next season.

If the Kraken acquired Laine, he would be an outstanding addition to their top six. He could work beautifully on a line with young forward Matty Beniers, as the two would have the potential to create some real magic together.

It will be intriguing to see how much of a push the Kraken make for Laine and if he will end up playing for Seattle from here.