Talks Around Former Winnipeg Jet Have Increased and it Looks Like He Will be Traded Soon

Trade talks regarding this former Winnipeg Jet have increased over the past few days, and it appears as though he will be traded sooner than expected.

Patrik Laine and the Columbus Blue Jackets are having a tough start to the year, and it doesn't look like things are turning around any time soon. Laine was a healthy scratch earlier this month, which sparked initial rumours that he could be a potential trade candidate.

Now, NHL insider Chris Johnston has just reported that everyone is on the table for consideration of a trade for the Blue Jackets, and no one is untouchable.

"No one outside of the organization's most prized young players and prospects is considered untouchable," - Johnston on the Columbus Blue Jackets

Clearly, Laine could be a candidate for a potential trade, as he has struggled to start the year with just 5 points in 13 games.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are likely to be sellers at the upcoming trade deadline, and moving Laine's $8 Million off the books could help them continue their rebuild. Since signing his new deal in the summer of 2022, Laine put up just 52 points last season and just 5 this year, a quarter of the way through the season.

So, not to throw gas on the fire here, but...

Fantilli was playing great.
Texier was playing great.
Laine was benched recently.

I'm starting to have my concerns about #29. Is he fully healthy? Is there something else going on? Or, is he just cold? #CBJ

I've kept this to myself for a long time but I really question whether or not Patrik Laine is truly an elite player anymore. He looked great in Winnipeg, and has had flashes here. But he's largely been underwhelming for a few different reasons in Columbus.

Previously on Hockey OTB

BREAKING - Jets Star Player Set to Return from Injury

Oilers GM Ken Holland Eyeing Familiar Face To Replace Jack Campbell

NHL Insider Reveals the Leafs' Future Plan to Potentially Aquire Two Calgary Flames Defensemen

POLL
29 NOVEMBRE \| 327 ANSWERS Talks Around Former Winnipeg Jet Have Increased and it Looks Like He Will be Traded Soon Do you think the Blue Jackets will trade Laine?
Yes	255	78 %
No	72	22 %
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