Trade Rumors Arise as Blue Jackets Scratch Their $9 Million All-Star Forward

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Dawson Mckenzie
November 19, 2023 (7:06 PM)

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The Columbus Blue Jackets have scratched one of their star forwards, sparking trade speculations amidst their struggling season.

Columbus Blue Jackets Scratch Patrik Laine

The Columbus Blue Jacket's horrendous season is continuing, as they have announced that they will be scratching Patrik Laine ahead of tonight's game against the Flyers. Laine, with an $8.7 million AAV, has struggled this year, recording just 3 points in 9 games played.

Patrik Laine has been announced a healthy scratch tonight for the Blue Jackets 😳

Patrik Laine is a healthy scratch Sunday for the Blue Jackets. He has 2 goals and 3 points through 9 games.

8.7 million AAV cap hit for Laine for this year and two more years.

Head Coach Pascal Vincent discussed the decision to scratch Laine with the media, saying that Laine was not pleased with the decision to keep him from the game.

#CBJ coach Pascal Vincent, asked about his decision to make Patrik Laine a healthy scratch today in Philadelphia:

Decision Has Sparked Trade Speculation Regarding Laine and the Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets are at a point now where they need to decide if they should try and flip Laine for long-term assets, or continue to try and turn the season around. Luckily, they will have some time to decide, as the trade deadline is not immediately approaching.