There are $7.5 million reasons why the #NHLJets should explore trading Patrik Laine. That is his salary next season. That is also what his qualifying offer will be at the end of his current deal.

Unless the #NHLJets are willing to sign him long term with a number that begins with a 9 or a 10 they will likely be headed to arbitration. Box car stats rule in arb so he would likely receive a record awarded salary ($9Mx1?)

Then Laine is 1 yr away from UFA. It’s Trouba all over again. So do the #NHLJets really want to commit 12-13% of the cap to a player like Laine who doesn’t drive play and only really adds value on the PP?

I think the #NHLJets should explore their options. That doesn’t mean I think they should trade him at all costs but that next contract could turn out to be quite an anchor for the team if they don’t find a way to move him.