Laine Opens Up About Relationship With Teammates In Winnipeg

Patrik Laine is about to make his debut with the Columbus Blue Jackets against the Dallas Stars. He spoke to the media earlier this afternoon and discussed many topics including his relationship with his teammates while he was a member of the Winnipeg Jets.

Laine answered a number of routine, hockey related questions before being asked about his relationship with his teammates in Winnipeg. The question gave particular emphasis to the rumor that he and captain Blake Wheeler did not have a great relationship, which may or may not have contributed to Laine's trade request.

His response was rather professional and did not make any edgy comments about his former teammate. In fact, it was quite the opposite. The rumor that Wheeler and Scheifele made Laine uncomfortable in the dressing room have not been corroborated, but stakeholders have not expressly denied it either.

Here's Laine's response.

When asked why it didn't work out in Winnipeg, Laine said: "I didn't make the trade, so it's hard to say."
— Michael Traikos (@Michael_Traikos) February 2, 2021

Laine on Wheeler: I think (the relationship) was always good. You know, there's always frustration going on, but I don't think we ever fight or had that big of an argument. I think was really professional. And he always tried to help the young guys and obviously did that for me"
— Michael Traikos (@Michael_Traikos) February 2, 2021