Insider suggests Columbus GM wants a major Canadiens player for Patrik Laine
According to Insider reports Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell wants a major Montreal Canadiens player for Patrik Laine.
With six 50-point seasons, it is no secret that Patrik Laine can be a great asset to nearly any NHL team. However, after a dip in his gameplay and his time in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assitance Program, it became clear that the 26-year-old forward would look for a new home in the league. This prompted general manager Don Waddell to start working on a trade deal for the former second-overall pick.
With the player having fewer regular season games and overall production in the last few years, Patrik Laine would be a hard sell across the league. Add the two-year contract at close to $9 million, this could prove even more difficult. Yet, Don Waddell's desired return on Patrik Laine a now been reported as greater than initially thought. According to NHL Insider Aaron Portzline, in return for the forward, the Columbus Blue Jackets want a major player. However, they are more likely to get picks and prospects to swallow as little of the contract cost as possible.
"You know, I don't think they can be too specific, to be honest with you. I don't think it's an immediate roster player, which could help their cause. It's probably some combination of picks and prospects. I think the bigger hitch is going to be how much of the $8.7 million that he's owed this year and next will Columbus have to swallow to get him moved along. I'm not saying it won't be a roster player, but the way that the Blue Jackets are aligned right now, with the young kids coming and with the players they've added in free agency, they don't definitely have to get a forward back in that trade, so there's some flexibility there. I think it'll be different with every team that they talk to too, just what those teams have to offer."
The Montreal Canadiens have been named as one of the top teams to acquire Patrik Laine, and have room in their roster for another high-scoring player. However, with the ask being so high, there are still issues in keeping trade talks moving. Hopefully, Don Waddell can work something out with Kent Hughes. Otherwise, it could be another disappointing season for Patrik Laine.
Source: Habs Fanatics
Blue Jackets demand key Canadiens player in trade for Patrik Laine
Blue Jackets demand key Canadiens player in trade for Patrik Laine
| POLL | ||
11 AOUT | 71 ANSWERS Insider suggests Columbus GM wants a major Canadiens player for Patrik Laine Is Don Waddell right to wait for a player deal for Patrik Laine? | ||
| Yes | 53 | 74.6 % |
| No | 18 | 25.4 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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