Only one team shows interest in Blue Jackets' Patrik Laine after recent sighting

PUBLICATION

River Hawk
August 4, 2024 (9:10)

SHARE THIS STORY

Rumors about the player's possible trade to the Habs have resurfaced after Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine was reportedly spotted at the Montreal airport.

Patrik Laine is undoubtedly a talented hockey player, recording 6 of his seasons with more than 50 total points. However, after some less productive play, the Finnish-born player made the tough decision to step back from the sport and join the NHL/NHLPA Player Assitance Program. In a statement on Instagram, Laine shared that he needed to take the time to focus on improving his mental health and thanked the community for their support.

Now, Laine has officially re-entered the league, getting cleared from the Player Assistance Program late in July. Being back with the Columbus Blue Jackets, talks that he may be placed on the trade block have persisted. It was believed GM Don Waddell would use Laine to make a big change in the team's structure.

However, these trade rumors have escalated substantially in the last few days. According to Stu Cowan of the Montreal Gazette, Patrik Laine shared on a recent edition of The Sick Podcast with Tony Mariano that Laine was recently spotted at the Montreal Airport. Provided the Habs' need for an effective goal-scorer and his appearance in the city, this gives more rise to the likelihood of his trade to the team.

Though his presence in Montreal is no guarantee he will be part of the Habs, this does make his chances of joining the team look much better than they did just weeks ago. Hopefully, no matter where he ends up at the start of the next NHL season, he will have the success he is looking for.