Joe Smith and Michael Russo of The Athletic: Sources say the Minnesota Wild have shown some interest in Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine going back in the June draft. With teams ready to talk to Laine, it is expected that the Wild will be one of those teams.
The Wild don't have much cap space, so Laine's contract will be an issue. Injuries will also be a concern for the Wild. He is recovering from shoulder surgery.
Patrik Laine is reportedly looking for a fresh start.
The goalscorer has scored 34 goals in the last three seasons. #CBJ pic.twitter.com/aqFDOHmhPb
– JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 12, 2024
NHL Network's Mike Rupp on The Athletic:
“If there's a team that's going to kick the tires, I think Minnesota (makes sense) because they need that star power. They need someone else who can help carry the workload as far as putting in big numbers.
“The problem I have with Laine depends on what kind of team he is. All Minnesota has done for themselves to achieve their identity is hard work and a lunch pail, isn't it. The thing that has kept Minnesota competitive is that everyone kind of pulls the same way and no one is independent. I think you will become a freelancer. It might work, but it might be worse, too. “
If the Blue Jackets retain 50% of Laine's $8.7 million cap hit, the Wild will still need to shell out money. Blue Jacket GM Don Waddell has gone on the record saying that if he could have kept 50% of the salary, he would have already fired Laine and added that it was not his first choice to do so.
Aaron Portzline said Waddell may be looking for a player who can play every night and make them more competitive. Freddy Gaudreau who has four years remaining at $2.1 million may fit the bill. Goaltender Filip Gustavsson, who is worth $3.75 million over two years, may be the best fit for the Blue Jackets. The Blue Jackets may need to find a team willing to take Elvis Merzlikins for $5.4 million over three years.
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