Sterling Archer
Registered User
- Sep 26, 2006
- 22,988
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I doubt Laine is happening. Jets had no leverage in the Trouba deal and part of it was because they wanted to avoid being offersheeted.
Jets have 15 men signed and $22M in cap with Laine and Conner to sign them and 6 others. They may have the money to match but the reality is they really don’t unless they want to play 5 AHLers in their lineup which bumps them out of being contenders.
Much smarter to trade a prime asset for some affordable roster players that address needs like Danault and Juulsen as well as stocking up on cheap prospects and picks.
That’s why it makes a ton of sense for them to trade Laine to try and stay competitive like Chicago did. I’d say they’re probably looking at guys like Danault, Juulsen and perhaps a Canfield or Suzuki. Cheap add bodies and keeps them competitive.
Laine will be traded. Question is whether we get him or someone else. I suspect Bergevins relationship with Cheveldayov gives us the advantage in that we’re going for Laine and not headhunting for Connor like other teams would be. Faster they trade Laine, the better sheltered they are against an OS for Conner. I’d expect the trade to be announced once Carolina officially matches on Monday afternoon leaving us with the assets and cap to sign Laine.
Fingers crossed!