Columbus Blue Jackets Struggles Continue As They Scratch This Top Player
The Columbus Blue Jackets have struggled this year, to say it nicely. Now, their struggles continue as they scratch this top star, sparking trade discussions.
Columbus Scratches Laine Ahead of Game Against Phillidelphia
Columbus is quickly spiralling down the drain to start this NHL season. Before the year even started they had their struggles, having to fire head coach Mike Babcock due to controversy. Currently, they sit at the bottom of the standings, and their struggles continue as they have now scratched Patrik Laine ahead of tonight's game.
Patrik Laine will be a health scratch for #CBJ in Philadelphia tonight. Adam Boqvist goes in as the Jackets go 11/7. Spencer Martin in net.
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Laine has had his own struggles this year, only recording 3 points in 9 games played. This is far below expectations, being paid $8.7 million AAV. Head coach Pascal Vincent had the following to say about the decision to sit their star.
"He's not happy about the decision, don't get me wrong. But right now I think Patty needs to take a deep breath, go back to the working lab and get his touches back, get his shot back, get his confidence back so he can be the No. 29 Patrik Laine we all know he can be." - Blue Jackets head coach Pascal Vincent
Having Laine unhappy isn't what Blue Jackets fans want, as they worry that this could lead to a trade.
Trade Speculation Heats Up As Laine is Scratched
Speculation around whether or not Laine will be traded has heated up after the announcement. The Blue Jackets are at a point now in the season where they will have to decide whether or not to cash in on their assets or to stick it out and try and turn things around. Many are pointing to Laine as a potential contract to move.
As seen on Blade of Steel - "Columbus Blue Jackets Make one of the Team's Top Stars a Healthy Scratch"
| POLL | ||
19 NOVEMBRE | 270 ANSWERS Columbus Blue Jackets Struggles Continue As They Scratch This Top Player Do you think the Blue Jackets will trade Laine? | ||
| Yes | 199 | 73.7 % |
| No | 71 | 26.3 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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