NHL.com provides an in-depth look at the rosters, prospects and fantasy matchups for each of its 32 teams from Aug. 1 to Sept. 1. Today, there are three big questions for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
1. Where will be Patrick Laine play?
The 26-year-old forward has expressed a desire for a fresh start, something general manager Don Waddell said in June the team was willing to try to accommodate, but not at the expense of the organization.
Laine has struggled since being acquired in a trade from the Winnipeg Jets on Jan. 23, 2021. In his four seasons with Columbus, he had 138 points (64 goals, 74 assists) in 174 games. He had 250 points (140 goals, 110 assists) in 306 games with Winnipeg.
Last season was particularly trying for Laine. He broke his collarbone on Dec. 14 and just over a month later, on Jan. 28, he entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. He finished the season with nine points (six goals, three assists) in 18 games.
With Laine not being released from the program until July 26, it has been difficult for Waddell to enter trade talks with other teams. He also has two seasons remaining on his four-year, $34.8 million contract ($8.7 million average annual value), which also poses a hurdle.
“No options are off the table at this point,” Waddell said.
