Minnesota Wild reportedly pursuing Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine

Laine has been involved in many trade rumors this summer after he entered the NHL player's assistance program. Prior to entering the program he had requested a trade and it appears as though he still feels the same way upon exiting the program. At this point, his talent is clear, but many NHL general managers will balk at the idea of trading for a player who hasn't played a full season since 2018-19. However, some may be more willing to take on that risk. It appears as though Wild general manager Bill Guerin is one of them.

Interestingly, Laine was spotted in public wearing a Minnesota Twins baseball cap. Could this be an indication that he really is going to Minnesota? Some fans certainly think so.

That being said, the Wild aren't going to get him for free. In fact, there may be a bidding war developing for the 26-year-old's services as the Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres are also both reportedly interested in him.

Laine has already been traded once in his career, from the Winnipeg Jets to the Blue Jackets. Between the two clubs, he has appeared in 480 career NHL games, and has204 goals and 388 points. Last season he appeared in just 18 games, recording 6 goals and 9 points. His second full year in the league marked his career highs in goals with 44 and points with 70. Unfortunately, injuries have since limited his ability to play to his ceiling. Hopefully, regardless of where he ends up next, he will be healthy for the remainder of his career.

Source: TSN
Report: Wild could have interest in F Laine

Source: HockeyReference
Patrik Laine Career Statistics