With Jets training camp set to open in a matter of days, former 2nd overall pick (2016) Patrik Laine is expected to be in attendance, as no suitable trade offers have presented themselves this offseason.
Earlier this year, reports had surfaced that Laine had requested a trade from Winnipeg Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff, which ended up being a slight misinterpretation. The reality of the situation was the Laine's representation [Mike Liut and Andy Scott] had suggested that it may be time for both sides to move on from one another.
Cheveldayoff took some time to address the Laine situation with the media on Tuesday, offering a very interesting spin on the matter, suggesting that Laine could be on the verge of a career year in Winnipeg.
"I assume he's probably gonna have one of the best years of his career, given the group of players that we have and the professionalism that is there," said Cheveldayoff from Bell MTS Place.
Laine, 22, is coming off of the best statistical season in his career, at least from a points per game perspective. His 63 points in 68 games equates to a 76-point pace in a full 82-game season. His 28 goals in 2019-20 put him on pace for his 4th consecutive 30+ goal season. Simply put, Laine is an elite goalscorer and a special talent. Here's hoping that Chevy is right and Laine has a breakout season, establishing himself as one of the premier players in the league in 2020-21.
If nothing else, it would drive up Laine's trade value and give the Jets every opportunity to bring in a quality return should the relationship remain stagnant, necessitating a trade to avoid another messy contract negotiation next offseason.
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