The Patrik Laine saga in Winnipeg is certainly well-storied. A former 2nd overall pick (2016) with elite sniping ability, strong skating and at 6'5", 206 lbs, he's not exactly easy to move off of the puck. When he was drafted, the Jets thought they were getting a franchise player whom they can build around for years to come in pursuit of hockey glory.
Fast forward a few short seasons, and Laine's time in Winnipeg appears to be nearing its end, one way or another. Earlier this year, Laine's agents Mike Liut and Andy Scott had suggested that a trade is what's best for both parties at this stage in their relationship. Laine is a player who feels he deserves steady top-line minutes with Paul Maurice's best players, while Maurice seems adamant that Laine should be driving his own line.
According to a report from The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, no such trade appears close at this time, though several teams remain interested in the 22-year-old Fin. As a result, the Jets are expected Laine to attend training camp, which is set to kick off in just 6 days.
Laine is set to enter the final year of his current deal, with a $6.75M cap hit, though his actual salary will be $7.5M, per the terms of his deal signed last offseason. He registered 28 goals and 63 points in 68 games for the Jets last season.
The Tampere, Finland native will become a restricted free agent with arbitration rights at the conclusion of his current deal.
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