Penguins Trade Opportunity: Consider Acquiring Patrik Laine
Pittsburgh Penguins president and GM Kyle Dubas is known for his strategic and value-driven approach to trades. Last summer, he orchestrated a savvy deal to acquire the reigning Norris Trophy winner for a package far below market value. Despite Erik Karlsson’s mixed first season with the Penguins, Dubas managed to trade a first- and second-round pick along with Mikael Granlund and Jeff Petry without additional asset expenditure—a move the NHL trade rumors didn’t see coming.
Dubas hinted that Granlund might have been bought out if a deal hadn’t been reached, underscoring the cleverness of the trade. Now, Dubas has another chance to pull off a similar coup, but this time targeting a younger player in need of a fresh start: Patrik Laine.
NHL Trade Rumors: Patrik Laine
Laine, a 26-year-old sniper, hasn’t found success with the Columbus Blue Jackets, scoring just nine points in 18 games this season after a stint in the NHL Players’ Assistance program. Over four seasons with Columbus, he’s netted 64 goals in 174 games. In contrast, his first five seasons with the Winnipeg Jets saw him score 140 goals in 304 games, including a 44-goal season in 2017-18.
Despite recent struggles, Laine’s talent remains undeniable. After completing the assistance program, he and his agent are now seeking a trade for a fresh start. Dubas’s recent comments at the NHL Draft Combine suggest a focus on acquiring picks and prospects while the core Penguins, including Sidney Crosby, can still mentor young players. Adding Laine could complement this strategy without significant disruption, especially if it involves offloading surplus veterans, similar to the Karlsson deal.
Penguins Trade Fit
While cities like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago might be more glamorous and interested in Laine, Pittsburgh offers a lower-pressure environment, potentially more conducive to his recovery and renewed performance.
