Just under a week ago, self-proclaimed NHL insider "Incarcerated Bob" revealed on twitter that three teams were speaking with the Winnipeg Jets about acquiring the services of star restricted free agent Patrik Laine. The insider is now back, revealing the names of several teams that have spoken to Winnipeg regarding Laine and who he believes the frontrunners are.
According to the profile, The Carolina Hurrianes, The Montreal Canadiens and an unnamed team in the Western Conference have been the most aggressive in talks with the Jets. The Philadelphia Flyers, Ottawa Senators and New Jersey Devils are all in the information gathering stages. It's also worth nothing that he says the Jets are still hopeful about re-singing Laine.
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While not much is known about "Incarcerated Bob" he was the first to report that Artemi Panarin would be signing with the New York Rangers, when all other insiders seemed to think the New York Islanders were a sure bet for the foward's services. He has also broken other trades in the past.
As for Laine, recent comments made him seem very indifferent about whether he returns to Winnipeg or moves to another team in the NHL.
"You never know, it's business, I have to get ready for every scenario, but yes, I do not know which team I will play next season, I have nothing negative to say about Winnipeg but I do not know what's next. "
He also stated there had been no contact with the team regarding a new contract throughout the summer and all he knows is he'll be playing "somewhere" in the upcoming season. The 21-year-old is currently practicing with Liiga's Tampereen Tappara, a team based in his home country of Finland.
