Latest on Laine, Kakko; Predators May Make More Moves

As the second week of NHL free agency unfolds, rumors and speculation continue. Here's the latest on Patrik Laine, Kaapo Kakko, and the Nashville Predators.

Blue Jackets Struggle to Trade Patrik Laine

The Columbus Blue Jackets have yet to find a trade partner for Patrik Laine. According to Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, there is no update on when the 26-year-old winger will be cleared to leave the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program.

Laine and the Blue Jackets agreed last month to seek a trade, as he desires a fresh start. He is signed through 2025-26 with an $8.7 million AAV and a 10-team no-trade list. Portzline suggests that efforts to move Laine may be hindered since interested teams might have already addressed their needs in free agency.

The Carolina Hurricanes were among those interested. Portzline noted they made an offer during the draft, having enough cap space (over $11 million) to accommodate Laine's full salary. However, with RFA forwards Martin Necas, Seth Jarvis, and Chris Drury to re-sign, Jarvis' potential $5 million annual contract could eliminate their cap flexibility.

Could the Rangers Trade Kaapo Kakko?

Despite signing Kaapo Kakko to a one-year, $2.4-million contract, trade rumors persist. The Rangers were reportedly shopping the 23-year-old winger ahead of the 2024 NHL draft. Remy Mastey of The Hockey News cited speculation that they might continue exploring trade options this summer.

Julian McKenzie of The Athletic suggested the Calgary Flames as a potential suitor, as they seek young talent. Mollie Walker of the New York Post noted Kakko's trade-friendly contract could attract interest now that free agency has slowed.

Predators May Shed Salary

Nashville Predators GM Barry Trotz made significant moves by signing Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei. However, these additions left the Predators without cap space. Alex Daugherty of The Tennessean reported that Trotz might need to move at least one player to become cap-compliant before the season starts.

Daugherty speculated that forward Cody Glass or defenseman Dante Fabbro, each with a $2.5-million cap hit and reduced playing time last season, could be trade candidates.