When Johnny Gaudreau signed a contact with the Columbus Blue Jackets it was supposed to represent the beginning of something special in Columbus. As the Blue Jackets started their rebuild they appeared headed in the right direction. Fast forward just a couple years later and things in Columbus appear worse off than ever.
Last season the Blue Jackets fired long-time General Manager, Jarmo Kekäläinen after the season got away from the Blue Jackets. This was highlighted by the firing of Head Coach Mike Babcock before he ever even coached a game for the Blue Jackets after some controversial off ice actions. The season further got off the rails when Patrik Laine enrolled in the Players Assistance Program.
Now it appears after completing his time in the program that Laine has opted for a fresh start, at least according to Pierre LeBrun.
According to the report, Columbus has made the decision to honor the request and will look to find a move that will see Laine complete his current contract elsewhere. In all of this, the most important aspect of this is the mental and physical health of Laine as he looks to work his way back to the NHL.
POLL | ||
JUIN 12 | 308 ANSWERS Another star player requests a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets Would you want Patrik Laine on your team? | ||
Yes, I absolutely would | 57 | 18.5 % |
No thank you | 174 | 56.5 % |
Depends on the cost | 77 | 25 % |
List of polls |