Elliotte Friedman reveals what really happened to Patrik Laine in Columbus
Elliotte Friedman's latest insight on Patrik Laine's departure from the Columbus Blue Jackets is shedding light on the unfortunate circumstances leading to his trade.
As reported by Habs Fanatics, according to Friedman, there was tensions within the Blue Jackets' locker room and it played a significant role in Laine departure since veteran players reportedly pushing for Laine's exit.
In his podcast 32 Thoughts, Friedman revealed:
- Elliotte Friedman
This sentiment suggests that Laine faced challenges beyond the ice which led to his trade request and Zach Werenski, who publicly criticized Laine after their recent matchup, was allegedly among those advocating for his departure.
Werenski's comments following the game added fuel to the controversy:
To see him badmouth us like this today, I find it unacceptable.
I hope he's OK tonight, but he left after just a few hits and didn't finish the game.
Seeing him say all that about us - it's ridiculous!
I'm definitely not happy about it, and none of the guys here are either.
It says more about him than it does about us.
It motivated us before the game, 100 percent.
What was he thinking saying things like that?
It's just unbelievable.
I don't want to talk about him anymore from now on.
It's ridiculous."»
- Zach Werenski, a few days ago
The situation shows how Laine's relationship was with his former team and why he was targeted by harsh criticisms and questionable hits during his return to Columbus earlier this month.
The positive news for Laine is his resurgence with the Montreal Canadiens that shows in a supportive environment and surrounded by a team that values his contributions, Laine is thriving.
His fresh start in Montreal, away from the challenges in Columbus, appears to be exactly what he needed to help his career and confidence.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Patrik Laine was a problem in Columbus? | ||
| Yes | 107 | 45.5 % |
| No | 128 | 54.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
