NHL trade rumors circulated earlier this season that Patrik Laine could be traded in the offseason, but it is more looking like the sniper could sign in Columbus long-term.
Jeff Svoboda of NHL.com reports Laine wants to stay with the team. Â Laine played this year under the one-year qualifying offer he inked last offseason, and now he’s a restricted free agent again.
“I don’t think it should be an issue, you know?” Laine said. “They have expressed they want me here, I’ve said the same thing. So you know, the feeling is mutual. Just figure out the term and the money and all that and I think we should be fine.”Â
Patrik Laine
Laine went on to say, he loves playing in Columbus, playing in front of these great fans. I love the city. I love everything about being here. It’s that simple.
Unless a team comes in with an offer sheet the Blue Jackets cannot match, expect Laine to be a Blue Jacket for many years.
