Story Summary
Laine, 28, remains without a club after his contract expired in the summer and has attracted reported interest from NHL teams. The Toronto Maple Leafs are named among the interested clubs. Ottawa reporter Bruce Garrioch also reports that Ottawa explored the possibility of signing Laine during the summer, but considers a move to the Canadian capital very unlikely. Laine played only five games last season, but has recorded three 30-goal NHL campaigns, including 44 goals for the Winnipeg Jets in 2017-18.
Key Facts
- Patrik Laine is a free agent after his contract expired in the summer.
- The Toronto Maple Leafs are reported as one interested club.
- Ottawa reporter Bruce Garrioch reports that additional clubs have shown interest and that Ottawa investigated signing Laine over the summer.
- Garrioch states it is currently very unlikely Laine would end up in Ottawa.
- Laine played only five NHL games last season.
- Laine has recorded three 30-goal seasons in his career and scored 44 goals for the Winnipeg Jets in 2017-18.
- Laine is 28 years old.
IHM Discussion
The report points to renewed interest in a player with an established NHL scoring record who is currently available. The Maple Leafs are named as an interested club, while Bruce Garrioch reports that Ottawa considered the option during the summer but is now an unlikely destination. Laine’s five-game season provides an important recent contrast to three previous 30-goal campaigns.
Why It Matters
Laine’s three 30-goal NHL seasons give interested clubs a clear record of high-end scoring production. His limited appearance total last season will nevertheless form part of any assessment of a potential signing.
Coach Mark Comment
A player with three 30-goal seasons brings proven scoring pedigree. The key for any staff considering him is to establish where that scoring ability best fits within the group.