Even though there are many rumors surrounding Patrik Laine, he remains a member of the Blue Jackets as of now.
With training camps approaching, it's uncertain whether the Finnish player will be traded before then.
Don Waddell has just provided new information regarding the Patrik Laine situation. In an interview with "The Hockey Writers," the new general manager of the Jackets revealed something intriguing:
«I don't have anything on the table (an offer for Patrik Laine) that makes sense for the Blue Jackets.»
Does this mean that Kent Hughes has officially made an offer? It's possible, but clearly, it was not satisfactory to Columbus.
The issue of retaining part of Laine's hefty contract also plays a significant role. Few, if any, teams seem willing to absorb his annual salary of $8.7 million.
For instance, Laine would become the highest-paid player on the Canadiens at present, surpassing Suzuki, Caufield, and Slafkovsky. This doesn't seem to make much sense...
This situation will likely continue to generate discussion until the official opening of the camps across the NHL!
