Mock Trade Brings Patrik Laine to the Maple Leafs
Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine has been the subject of trade rumors, and one proposal sees him joining the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Laine requested a trade, and after entering the NHL and NHLPA Player Assistance Program on July 26, speculation intensified. A PuckPedia tool called PuckGM allows users to create hypothetical trades, and one user suggested a deal that sends Laine to Toronto with salary retained.
Maple Leafs Receive:
– Patrik Laine ($4.4 million retained)
– 2025 third-round pick
Blue Jackets Receive:
– Nick Robertson
– David Kampf
– 2026 first-round pick
This would be a blockbuster trade, adding Laine as an offensive asset for the Leafs. Columbus would retain $4.4 million of Laine’s salary to make the finances work, as he is in the third year of his $34.8 million contract.
For the Blue Jackets, acquiring Nick Robertson, who has requested a trade from Toronto due to frustration with his playing time, could be significant. David Kampf, a defensive forward, scored 19 points in 78 games last season. Additionally, Columbus would gain Toronto’s 2026 first-round pick, a valuable asset.
Blue Jackets Seeking ‘Right Fit’ for Laine
Laine requested a trade after the season, but no deal has been finalized. He was acquired by Columbus on January 23, 2021, from the Winnipeg Jets in a major trade but has struggled with consistency and health, prompting his desire for a fresh start.
Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell emphasized the need for a trade that benefits Columbus. “Patrik’s made it clear he wants a fresh start. We will consider all options and make a trade if it makes sense for us,” Waddell stated on TSN 1050 on July 25. He acknowledged Laine’s feelings and expressed a willingness to find a suitable deal.
Maple Leafs GM on Robertson’s Future
In the trade scenario, the Maple Leafs would part with Robertson. Despite his trade request, Toronto GM Brad Treliving has expressed a desire to keep him. “Nick is an excellent player, and we see a great opportunity for him here,” Treliving said on July 1, indicating no intention to trade the forward.