The Columbus Blue Jackets have been trying to trade Patrik Laine since he requested a move in early June. However, Laine's presence in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program complicates matters. While the Jackets can technically trade him, interested teams want to speak with him first.
Laine has an $8.7 million annual cap hit through 2024-25 and a 10-team no-trade list. According to The Athletic's Aaron Portzline, the Jackets are still waiting for Laine's release from the program, preventing any direct communication with him. Portzline suggests that the ideal time to trade Laine might have passed as teams have made moves via trades and free agency.
Despite this, Portzline reports that GM Don Waddell remains hopeful, noting that some teams are still interested in Laine. Waddell believes that with the free-agent market dwindling, clubs might revisit trade options.
Meanwhile, Sportsnet's Ryan Dixon highlighted Morgan Frost, who was frequently mentioned in trade rumors last season. With the free-agent market settled, Dixon wonders if a rival team might explore acquiring the 25-year-old center. Although Frost had some issues with coach John Tortorella, the Flyers haven't shown urgency to move him.
The Vegas Golden Knights made waves by trading Logan Thompson to the Washington Capitals and signing free agent Ilya Samsonov. Now, they rely on Samsonov and the injury-prone Adin Hill as their goaltending duo. Both are set to become unrestricted free agents next July.
Danny Webster of the Las Vegas Review-Journal notes that Hill needs to prove he can stay healthy, while Samsonov must rebound from a tough season with the Toronto Maple Leafs. If Hill doesn't secure a contract extension with his performance, the Golden Knights might look for a new starter, potentially targeting Linus Ullmark if he doesn't re-sign with the Ottawa Senators.
