Elliotte Friedman Says Jarmo Kekäläinen Knew About Patrik Laine's Desire To Move On

On Elliotte Friedman's 32 Thoughts Podcast today, he told host Jeff Marek that former GM Jarmo Kekäläinen knew about Laine's desire to leave. 

Friedman says "We were headed to this last season. Laine got hurt, and I had heard during that time that when Laine was healthy enough to return, this was going to happen. The Blue Jackets, then under Jarmo Kekäläinen were going to give permission for Laine to explore a trade, and Laine's agents to do it. Then of course Laine went into the program. I do think this was something that was brewing. The Blue Jackets knew that Laine preferred this and were willing to help facilitate it."

It sounds like Jarmo Kekäläinen could've pulled off one last move, but it got de-railed by the Laine going into the Player Assistance Program. 

The main job for Don Waddell now is to find a team that will be willing to work with him on Laine's salary. Also, Laine has to submit a no-trade list, which could also muddy the waters. There are plenty of teams that could take on his salary at 100%, but most likely the team that really wants him will want some retention. 

This story is fluid and we will update you as we get more info. 

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