NHL Rumors: Patrik Laine on the block, Matt Dumba and Toronto, Montreal making moves, and more
Anthony Scultore
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The NHL rumors mill is buzzing everyday now about Patrik Laine. Almost every major insider from Darren Dreger to Elliotte Friedman is talking about it. Last night, TSN dedicated a segment to it as well.
NHL Rumors – Jets serious about trading Patrik Laine
“Absolutely they’re serious,” Dreger exclaimed on Insider Trading. “Look, I mean, Patrik Laine’s name on the Trade Bait board isn’t just eye candy or speculative. The Winnipeg Jets know what their needs are. They need a No. 2 centre and they need to bolster the top four on their blue line.”
The explanation for such a huge move is that the Jets know they aren’t a free agent destination so they have to use the trade market to improve. Pierre Lebrun then added that the Blue Jackets are interested.
“[Columbus has] ample salary cap room, they lost a big time offensive threat a year ago when Artemi Panarin walked into free agency and never really replaced him,” Lebrun said. Additionally he added the Hurricanes had talks with Winnipeg for Laine but it died. Finally, as I have been saying, Lebrun pointed to Montreal.
NHL Rumors – Matt Dumba and the Leafs
Also on Insider Trading was defenseman Matt Dumba of Minnesota. Dreger said, “In a perfect world Bill Guerin would love to land a No. 1 centre, even a No. 2. And that doesn’t appear to be reality at this situation at this point, unless something situationally changes.”
Of course, the Leafs are after Alex Pietrangelo first but if that doesn’t pan out they may make a play for Dumba.
NHL Rumors – Canadiens sign Petry
The Habs have signed defenseman Jeff Petry to a new deal. As we just spoke about, the Canadiens could make a play for Laine. Maybe Max Domi and a defenseman? Also expect them to go all out for Taylor Hall.
Top 10 List of Trade and Buyout Candidates
If you missed it, Bobby Ryan was bought out today. Here’s our article with video on the top candidate for a trade and/or buyout.