On This Date: Patrik Laine Signs His 4 Year Deal Two Years Ago Today

Two years ago today, Patrik Laine signed his 4-year contract with the CBJ. His deal runs through 2026 and carries a $8.7 million cap hit.

In 22-23 despite some injuries, he was on about a point-per-game pace. In 55 games played, he scored 22 goals and had 52 points. Late in the season he even tried his hand at playing center, and did it well actually. 

Last season, plagued by injuries, Laine only played in 18 games, totaling 9 points. After breaking his collarbone in December, he went into the NHL Player Assistance Program in January. He may have played his last game for Columbus. 

In 174 games, he scored 64 goals and had 138 points for Columbus.

Last month, it came out that Patrik Laine had requested a trade away from Columbus to get a "fresh start." So far, there hasn't been a trade, but rumors persist about different teams being interested. As a reminder, he can be traded at any time, but as Don Waddell has said many times, teams want to talk to Laine first before any move. 

It's safe to say that acquiring Patrik Laine didn't go as planned for both him and the team. New GM Don Waddell has his work cut out for him, and while it's highly unlikely, there's still a possibility that he talks Laine into remaining a Blue Jacket. 

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