Jets’ captain Wheeler responds to Laine’s comments during contract standoff

On Monday, Winnipeg Jets restricted free agent Patrick Laine took his game to Switzerland while his agent and the Jets continue contract negotiations. Laine has officially joined SC Bern of the Swiss National League, but made headlines in Winnipeg with the comments he made later on on the coaching staff and his teammates. 

Laine told Pekka Jalonen of Finland’sIltalehti that he believes he would be a first-line player on most NHL teams , but instead has pushed to play lower in the Jets lineup. 

His captain Blake Wheeler responded to his comments on Tuesday seeing that several fans believe this could affect the team’s dressing room once Laine agrees to a new deal with the Jets. 

However, Laine found a very diplomatic way in handling the situation. 

“He’s certainly one of our best players,” Wheeler said, according to TSN .”He spends a good deal of time on that top unit on the power play. We’re top five in the league in the past couple years and a big part of that is what Patty does.

“He’s a young kid that’s certainly had a lot of success in three years. He’s definitely not doing it by himself, I can guarantee you that.

“And I think it’s a great trait to have to want more, to want more ice time, more playing time. I would say those are all good things, man. You want guys that are hungry for more and not content with where (they’re) at.”

Laine tallied 15 of his 30 goals on the power play last season and notched 23 of his 50 points with the man advantage. He has a total of 110 goals and 184 points in 237 career games with the Jets.

Wheeler added that the’s never gotten the impression Laine wants out of Winnipeg. The captain however wants to make sure that team chemistry won’t be affected by what Laine has to say.

“You just try to empower everyone to get the best of their abilities, and just realize that everyone on a hockey team, maybe more than any other sport, has a role, has a buy-in,” Wheeler said.

Laine still has to agree to a new deal and therefore show his will to take on his role for the Jets this season. Wheeler’s reaction might encourage him to get back with the team.