Now a wild solution is being hinted at – Patrik Laine alongside an NHL superstar?
Patrik Laine is still waiting for a new NHL contract, but one team is now emerging strongly as a possible option. The Hockey Writers assesses that the Chicago Blackhawks could be an excellent place for the Finn to restart his career.
According to the site, the Blackhawks could acquire Laine with relatively low risk. The difficult past seasons have lowered the forward’s market value, so he might be available on a one-year prove-it deal that could also include performance bonuses.
Chicago could offer Laine an attractive opportunity, especially alongside Connor Bedard. Bedard’s playmaking skills and Laine’s renowned shot could create a dangerous combination in the offensive zone, although there are still question marks regarding defensive play.
Although Laine has faced criticism for his team play, his goal-scoring ability has not disappeared. In the 2024–25 season, the Finn scored 20 goals in 52 games, with 15 of them coming on the power play.
The Hockey Writers also highlights that Laine is at an important stage in his career. A successful season could restore his standing in the NHL, while another disappointment could further complicate his future.
For the Blackhawks, a potential contract would be primarily a low-risk experiment, according to the site. If Laine were to find his best form again, Chicago would gain a dangerous goal scorer on an affordable contract. If the experiment failed, the team would have the option to move him at the trade deadline in the spring.
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