Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine has exited the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program as of Friday, which not only allows him to return to the ice but also makes him available for trade discussions.
Laine, who was acquired by Columbus from Winnipeg during the 2021 season, has reportedly requested a trade from the Blue Jackets. Last season, he managed six goals and nine points in 18 games before suffering a broken clavicle on December 14 during a victory over the Maple Leafs. About a month later, Laine entered the Player Assistance Program for support.
New Columbus general manager Don Waddell recently indicated that a trade is likely to be finalized before the start of the new season. According to the Columbus Dispatch, the progress of trade negotiations was hampered by Laine’s inability to communicate with Waddell or other general managers while he was in the Player Assistance Program.
Laine has two years remaining on his contract, which carries an annual cap hit of $8.7 million. Despite his notable connections in Florida, including friendships with Panthers’ star Sasha Barkov and other Finnish players like Eetu Luostarinen, Anton Lundell, and Niko Mikkola, the Florida Panthers are not expected to pursue Laine due to financial constraints. Although Laine has been training in South Florida, it is unlikely that he will join the Panthers at this time.
Laine’s most prolific seasons came during his early years with the Winnipeg Jets, where he scored 138 goals over his first four seasons under coach Paul Maurice. However, a move to the Panthers seems improbable for now. Laine, who just turned 26, still has significant potential ahead of him and will become a free agent in two years.