BREAKING: Former 40-Goal Scorer And 2nd Overall Pick Leaves His Team

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James Connelly
January 28, 2024 (3:44 PM)

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It was just announced that Patrik Laine will be leaving the Columbus Blue Jackets as he has entered the player assistance program.

Laine Leaves Columbus To Get Help

It has just been announced that Patrik Laine is leaving the Columbus Blue Jackets for an undetermined period of time as he is entering the player assistance program.

#CBJ forward Patrik Laine has entered the NHL / NHLPA player-assistance program and will be away from the club for an undetermined amount of time, The Athletic has learned.
Story posting soon.

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine has entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, the Blue Jackets, NHL and NHLPA announced today.

He will be unavailable to the club for an indefinite period while he receives care. Under the terms of the joint NHL/NHLPA program, he will return to the club when cleared for on-ice competition by the program administrators.
"Patrik has our complete support, and our sole concern is his well-being," said Blue Jackets General Manager and Alternate Governor Jarmo Kekalainen. "Out of respect for Patrik, we will have no further comment."

Laine has had a turbulent career thus far with highs like scoring 44 goals in his second year and lows like this season where he has 9 points in 18 games and has been a healthy scratch a few times.

More details from the situation to come.