Patrik Laine Scores OT Winner In Dominant Season Opening Performance

It is no secret that Patrik Laine wants out of Winnipeg. Laine is an explosive player and a complete goal scorer, but he lacks consistency. Perhaps the Jets should attempt to persuade Laine to rescind his trade request and stay with the team. His performance tonight was absolutely dominant. 

Laine put up 2 goals and 1 assist for a combined 3 points against the Calgary Flames. He also scored the game winning goal in overtime. Not only did he get on the board, but he mixed it up with Noah Hanifin after a dirty hit on Kyle Connor. Laine was a difference maker and that's exactly what the Jets need. A defacto Gordie Howe Hat-Trick isn't a bad start. Perhaps they can create an environment where Laine will be comfortable to stay and rescind his trade request. 

Patrik Laine end-to-end OT winner pic.twitter.com/rfzEvCzNZm

— Brady Trettenero (@BradyTrett) January 15, 2021

This is a whole new Battle Royale for Laine pic.twitter.com/tKMf0sJteb

— Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) January 15, 2021

Patrik Laine snipes his first goal of the season after a WILD sequence. 🤩🚨

(🎥: @Sportsnet, @timandsid) pic.twitter.com/vjdcOH4kta

— theScore (@theScore) January 15, 2021

It didn't count as a fight in the box score, but Patrik Laine has BASICALLY recorded a Gordie Howe hat-trick in Game #1.

...Just in case you had any doubts about his heart. 😤 pic.twitter.com/mDZufMRYcx

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 15, 2021