The Toronto Maple Leafs may benefit from Star Winger’s trade request.

The Toronto Maple Leafs may benefit from Star Winger’s trade request.

A potential huge payoff buy-low opportunity should be taken into consideration by the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Patrik Laine, a winger with the Columbus Blue Jackets, has asked to be traded, according to source Pierre LeBrun. Following that declaration, rumors start to circulate about possible destinations for the former second-overall selection, including the Toronto Maple Leafs.

LeBrun’s report claims that Patrik Laine is seeking a new beginning. Even if that phrase might seem ambiguous, Laine really needs a change of scenery, particularly in a place where he wouldn’t be counted on to be a top scorer.

Thus, this raises the question: Would the Toronto Maple Leafs gain anything by making a trade for Patrik Laine? Yes, but only if the price is good, is the quick response. There are numerous levels to reveal in the lengthy response, though. As we assess the possible advantages that Toronto might receive from Patrik Laine, let’s examine those layers.

The Jesse Puljujarvi case in Edmonton bears similarities to the Laine issue. Strangely enough, Puljujarvi was chosen two places below Laine, in fourth place. In Edmonton, Puljujarvi and I never really clicked. Despite their best efforts, the Oilers were unable to assist Puljujarvi in gaining any momentum in Edmonton.

After moving around a little, Puljajarvi eventually left Edmonton and appears to have made a home with the Pittsburgh Penguins. This past season, he scored four points in 22 games. That might not blow everyone away, but for a player with such high hopes, it’s a start.

Likewise, same applies to Laine. Even though he may be at the bottom of his career, at just 26 years old, he is still quite gifted.

When playing at his peak, Patrik Laine has the ability to score goals and skate, making him one of the NHL’s finest scorers overall. Laine may require more organization and discipline even though his defensive style leaves a lot to be desired. Mike Babcock was supposed to bring that to Columbus, but it never materialized.

Craig Berube would have a firm grip on Laine in Toronto. Laine might really gain from Berube’s methods and coaching approach. However, Berube’s approach might discourage Laine from signing with the Leafs.

However, one more important thing to think about. Laine resembles William Nylander quite a bit. Despite having excellent skills, none of them seems to enjoy being in the spotlight. They don’t appear to be really at ease in their role as the go-to guys. Laine might therefore benefit greatly from playing on the third line with John Tavares at center.It’s important to deflect attention from Laine. Nylander, Mitch Marner, and Auston Matthews in Toronto can divert a lot of focus off Laine.

Laine’s confidence might progressively grow if he can sort of blend in for a little. Laine may be able to get his mind back in the right place if he is not required to be the team leader. The eight million dollar question is now to be asked: Laine’s cap hit is $8.7 million.

The Leafs will not be successful with that. However, a trade would make sense if the Leafs can work out a salary retention clause. The Blue Jackets might find it difficult to find suitors, so the Leafs could persuade Columbus to keep half while still accepting a ridiculously low price.

Laine’s comeback to his 40-goal form is ultimately wishful thinking. Reaching 20 goals and maintaining good health could be key components of a successful career turnaround. It might not seem like enough work, even for a $4 million cap hit. Brad Treliving ought to test Laine at the very least. Maybe something will materialize out of nothing.