Key Takeaways:
– Columbus Blue Jackets’ forward Patrik Laine could potentially be headed to the Detroit Red Wings.
– Analyst Evan Sabourin recommends a trade package including players Jonatan Berggren, William Wallinder, and a future third-round pick.
– Laine’s depleted performance might mean a lower asking price, which Sabourin believes is worth the risk for the Red Wings’ development.
As the trading season draws near, exciting speculation surrounds the Detroit Red Wings. Hockey experts are encouraging the team to consider a trade for Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine. This comes on the back of news that Laine, the No. 2 pick in the 2016 draft, is ready for a new beginning and Columbus seems open to facilitating the move.
Trade Proposal from Analyst Sabourin
Evan Sabourin of The Hockey Writers believes the Red Wings could put together a compelling trade package for Columbus. He suggests residents of Motor City might sacrifice players like Jonatan Berggren and William Wallinder along with a future third-round pick to secure Laine’s services. “A healthy, clear-headed Laine could have a significant impact on the Red Wings’ revitalization efforts,” Sabourin shared in his column.
Role for Laine in Detroit’s Revival
There are several compelling reasons for Detroit to consider this proposition. From the time Laine came into the league, his performance has fluctuated due to inconsistencies caused by injuries. The Finnish prolific forward’s rookie stats of 36 goals and 28 assists, followed by 44 goals and 26 assists in his second season, were impressive. Nevertheless, post his transition from Winnipeg to Columbus, it’s been a downhill journey.
Despite these drawbacks, Detroit’s hunt for top-tier talent makes Laine a valid candidate. A new environment might just be the catalyst for him to regain his form. Also, with his current contract, which has two seasons remaining on a $8.7 million cap hit, Sabourin believes it might not cost the Red Wings excessively to secure Laine.
Assessing the Risks of the Trade
While a trade might offer Laine a chance to realign his career, Sabourin warns Detroit to proceed with caution. There are other factors for the team to consider. This includes potentially locking up stars Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond to long-term deals, which is crucial for the franchise’s growth.
The cost of Laine’s contract is a significant gamble for a team that looks to tie down dynamic players like Seider and Raymond. According to statistics from CapFriendly, the Red Wings could possess around $29.3 million of cap space entering the offseason. While this could accommodate Laine’s contract, it would leave less capital to negotiate long-term deals with existing players.
Laine’s Potential in Detroit
In spite of not hitting the 30-goal mark in five consecutive seasons, Sabourin believes Laine’s talent, age, and potential brand him as a quality candidate for a fresh chapter in Detroit. “A change of setting and structured system might stimulate Laine’s latent strengths,” Sabourin noted.
Speculations about trading a first-round pick for the forward do exist, but Sabourin suggests a less costly package. This would comprise a lower ranked player, a defensive prospect, and a future draft pick. In light of Laine’s recent performance, such an exchange seems more realistic and beneficial for both teams.
To conclude, while this potential trade sparks intriguing conversations, only time will elucidate if the Red Wings take the risk. One thing is certain – if the move happens, it could significantly reshape the Red Wings’ current rebuild phase whilst offering Laine a much-needed fresh start. As Sabourin aptly finishes, “I think that deal is easily worth the risk.”
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