Patrik Laine trade: 3 reasons why teams are shying away from Blue Jackets forward

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Aug 08, 2024 21:12 GMT

Columbus Blue Jackets star forward Patrik Laine has been the subject of intense speculation following his public trade request. The former second-overall pick from 2016 had a down year last season. He played in just 18 games, scoring six goals in that span.

However, Patrik Laine is a former 40-goal scorer and has topped 20 goals six times in his career. While Laine has drawn considerable interest around the league, the Blue Jackets have been unable to find the right trading partner to make a deal.

In particular, three reasons are keeping the Blue Jackets from pulling the trigger on a deal for Patrik Laine. So, let’s take a closer look at why teams are shying away from the Blue Jackets’ star forward.

3 reasons why teams are shying away from Patrik Laine

#3: Laine is coming off a major injury

Patrik Laine has struggled with injuries throughout his career. He’s only played a full 82-game season twice, the last time being in 2018-19 with the Winnipeg Jets. Last season, Laine first missed time with a broken clavicle. Then, his season was cut short after it was revealed he needed shoulder surgery to repair the injury.

The speculation is that Laine will be fully healthy for this upcoming season. Nevertheless, teams may have lingering doubts regarding Laine’s health. Specifically, there is no telling if he will return to his former self.

#2: Laine was in the NHLPA Player Assistance Program

While recovering from surgery, Laine requested admittance into the NHLPA’s Player Assistance Program. Laine said that the move responded to mental health issues he had been struggling with throughout his career.

While heading into the Player Assistance Program was a smart personal move, there is little guarantee that Laine has put his issues behind him. Thus, teams may shy away from Laine as lingering mental health issues could greatly diminish his on-ice performance.

#1: Laine’s massive contract

Laine’s issues and injuries may not play as significant a role as his massive contract. Laine is entering the third year of a four-year deal that carries an $8.7 million cap hit, according to PuckPedia.

The cap hit alone makes it extremely difficult for the Blue Jackets to move Laine. Very few teams have enough cap space to fit Laine’s contract. Unless the Blue Jackets retain at least 25%, almost no teams would be able to afford Laine.

Ultimately, Laine’s cap hit makes acquiring him a considerable gamble. There is no assurance that Laine could ever return to the 40-goal form he once displayed earlier in his career.