Don Waddell Confirms Patrik Laine Had Shoulder "Cleanup"

Don Waddell Confirms Patrik Laine Had Shoulder "Cleanup"

New Columbus GM Don Waddell appeared on the Frankly Speaking Podcast with Frank Seravalli on Thursday to talk about his team. 

One of the topics discussed was Patrik Laine. Waddell confirmed what many had feared after seeing a social media post with Laine in a shoulder sling. He had shoulder surgery. 

Waddell was asked about Patrik Laine and his health status due to him being in a sling in a social media post. "He's one of the calls I'm going to make here in the next day or so, with him and his representation, see where he's at. I know he had the shoulder, I think it was more of a cleanup. They didn't think it was anything too serious. I know he just had that not too long ago,"  Waddell says. 

He goes on to say about Laine, "You're talking about a difference-maker as a player. You know, he can be a difference-maker. The big thing and what I've talked to players about being here, do you want to be a part of the solution or not?  We want players that want to play for the Columbus Blue Jackets. And certainly, if he's got his mindset made up right, I know him as a player, I don't know him as an individual at all, know him as a player. We need his types of players to have success moving forward."

Patrik Laine's future is still unknown at this point, but it seems like he is getting his mind and body healthy. It sounds like Waddell should have a good idea of what is going to happen with Laine in the coming days. Stay tuned.

Waddell also talked about Pascal Vincent, Elvis Merzlikins, and what his priorities are at the start of his tenure in Columbus. 

You can watch the full interview below.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKYRjUZ5WA0[/embed]

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