Patrik Laine talks nearing conclusion: Three teams still in the running

On Friday afternoon, it was revealed that Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine has exited the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. By exiting the program, it now allows Laine to talk to other teams that are interested in trading for him.

Laine has two years remaining on his contract with a cap hit of $8.7 million per season, along with a modified no-trade clause. If the Blue Jackets are to move Laine before the start of the 2024-25 season, which is expected, there's a good chance they may have to retain some salary to get a deal done.

Talks regarding Laine have reportedly been heating up, with the expectation that he'll be dealt pretty soon. It appears that three teams remain in the mix to acquire Patrik Laine - Buffalo, Montreal and Washington.

Laine, 26, appeared in 18 games for Columbus last season before he suffered an upper-body injury, followed by a setback in his recovery and then entered the Player Assistance Program. In those 18 games, Laine put up nine points (six goals, three assists), six penalty minutes and was a minus-ten.

Which team do you think would be the best fit for Patrik Laine - Buffalo, Montreal or Washington? Let us know what you think in the poll below.