NHL Trade Rumors: Patrik Laine Would Be "Good Fit" With Metropolitan Team

Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey Now has linked Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine to the Pittsburgh Penguins, stating that Laine would be "a good fit" for the team.

Laine, who has been cleared from the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, is now officially on the trade block and has received permission to speak directly with interested teams.

Columbus GM Don Waddell confirmed that Laine has expressed a desire for a "fresh start" elsewhere, though Waddell emphasized that any trade must also be in the best interests of the Blue Jackets.

Patrik Laine sure can shoot the puck 🎯#CBJ pic.twitter.com/r6mjBraj6G
— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) December 2, 2023

Despite his $8.7 million salary cap hit over the next two seasons, there is widespread interest in Laine.

The 26-year-old forward has been a prolific scorer throughout his career, amassing 204 goals in 480 games split between Winnipeg and Columbus.

However, injuries have limited his play over the last two seasons, with Laine appearing in only 73 games since the start of the 2022-23 season.

Over his four seasons with Columbus, the 26-year-old Laine has recorded 64 goals and 74 assists for 138 total points across 174 games played.

Patrik Laine has been officially cleared to return from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. pic.twitter.com/cWt6wj5hdC
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) July 26, 2024

Kingerski believes Laine's scoring ability and size would add significant value to Pittsburgh, especially given their need to bolster offensive firepower.

For any trade to materialize, Columbus would need to navigate Laine's substantial cap hit, with only a few teams like the Anaheim Ducks, Calgary Flames, Detroit Red Wings, Carolina Hurricanes, San Jose Sharks, and Utah Hockey Club able to afford his full salary, as noted by Lyle Richardson of The Hockey News.

However, these teams have their considerations, such as pending free agents or potential inclusion on Laine's no-trade list. If a trade involves teams outside this group, it would likely require Columbus to retain part of Laine's salary or involve a salaried player to balance the finances.

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