Report: Maple Leafs interested in free-agent Patrik Laine
We're into the second week of August, and the Patrik Laine sweepstakes are heating up.
The Leafs are reportedly one of five teams that are linked to free agent winger Patrik Laine, according to The Montreal Gazette’s Herb Zurkowsky. “Since free agency began on July 1, Laine has been linked to the New York Rangers, Minnesota Wild, Tampa Bay Lightning, Toronto Maple Leafs and, more recently, the Philadelphia Flyers,” Zurkowsky wrote. “Signing with Toronto would potentially put Laine on a line with captain Auston Matthews, who was selected first overall in 2016, one pick ahead of Laine.”
“I’m excited to see new opportunities and see where it goes. We’ll see where the wind takes me,” Laine said of his future. “I’ll be playing in this league for a long time. That’s not a question. That’s never something I’ve doubted. I just kind of need an opportunity. Great shape, feel good. Still got a lot of time before next season, so that’s definitely something I’m not worried about.”
Multiple reports have surfaced stating Laine is gaining steam on the free-agent market, and there's a few teams who have made contact of late, including the Toronto Maple Leafs. Laine is coming off a down season littered with injuries, but after last season, admitted it was the Montreal Canadiens organization that was holding him out, as he was healthy enough to re-join the team in January.
Laine only played five games last season, recording one assist, however, he's loaded with untapped potential, and if he's able to regain his form, could return to a regular 30-goal scorer. The Maple Leafs need some more depth on right wing, and could take a one-year flyer on the former No.2 pick.
We won't have to wait much longer to know where Laine is playing next season. Will it be Toronto?