Report: Don Waddell Hasn't Spoken To Laine's Camp Yet

Per Brian Hedger of The Columbus Dispatch, new Columbus GM Don Waddell hasn't even spoken to Patrik Laine. Hedger also says that Laine spoke to Columbus before Waddell was hired about his desire to leave Columbus. 

Yesterday, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported that Patrik Laine and his camp have told the Columbus Blue Jackets that he wants a fresh start, and wants to be traded out of Columbus. As a reminder, Laine entered the player assistance program in January and remains in the program. Laine also recently sold his downtown Columbus condo, which sparked online rumors and speculation as well. 

Trade speculation started almost immediately after the news came out yesterday. Laine's 8.7 million dollar cap hit won't be easy to move, but luckily for Waddell, he has some wiggle room with the salary cap going up to $88 million. 

Could Waddell change Laine's mind after they speak? Waddell recently said in an interview with Frank Seravalli, "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."

THN Columbus will keep you updated on this story.

What do you think? Please share your thoughts on our forum.

More From THN Columbus