NHL teams reach out to Laine to talk trade or offer sheet

It has been reported by TSN’s Bob McKenzie that a deal doesn’t appear “close at all” when it comes to Patrik Laine and the Winnipeg Jets, which prompted Pierre LeBrun to reveal that teams are starting to take special interest in Laine’s situation.

LeBrun explained on Monday’s Insider Trading on TSN that teams around the NHL have begun contacting Laine’s camp ahead of the start of the season, which is just around the corner. 

“And the sense is when Laine, in his case, does sign with Winnipeg – if and when – that it’ll be a bridge deal.But in the meantime, we’re told that teams over the past week have checked in with Patrik Laine’s camp led by Mike Liut,” LeBrun said.”And now, are they checking in because of a potential offer sheet or are they checking in because maybe they want to call Winnipeg and try and trade for Patrik Laine?

“I’m not saying either one is happening. I’m just saying teams are getting curious about that situation.”

The Jets are in a lot of trouble, with Laine and teammate Kyle Connors still unsigned, but also have to deal with defenseman Dustin Byfuglien whom they suspended for cap purposes last week. 

“The Jets are talking to teams about potential trades, but with the Byfuglien situation still out there, it’s hard to do anything,” added Darren Dreger during the segment. 

As of now, Laine is skating alongside another star RFA, Colorado Avalanche’s Mikko Rantanen, with Switzerland’s SC Bern as he awaits a new deal.