Rangers to deal for Laine?: The Blue Jackets official asking price revealed

While Laine remains in the NHL/NHLPA players assistance program, there are several NHL teams who are interested in acquiring the forward.

One sticking point for NHL teams is his expensive $8.7 Million cap hit, which runs through 2025-2026.

Not to mention his 10-team no-trade list.

In order to make a trade happen quicker, the team is willing to retain a portion of Laine's salary.

Aaron Portzline of the Athletic has reported that the team is looking for a package of prospects rather than making a hockey trade for a roster player.

This would suggest the strategy is now to start rebuilding and accumulating assets.

Now that Don Waddell has revealed the price for Patrik Laine, should GM Chris Drury consider moving significant assets for Laine?

Of course, Drury would have to consider if Laine has the Rangers on his no-trade list. Which would be hard to believe, given the history of the original six franchise.

Given the fact that the situation will remain in flux until a suitor is found the going price is a package of prospects, while Columbus is willing to retain salary in order to make the deal more palatable for GMs across the league.

Source: NHL Trade Rumors
Blue Jackets Rumors: Asking Price For Patrik Laine Revealed