The Daily: Laine Trade Still a Probability; Kasper is No. 1

Columbus Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell said Thursday that he is still plans  to trade Patrik Laine, but he can’t guarantee he will move him.

Waddell needs to wait until Laine leaves the NHL/NHL Players Association program to allow teams to talk to him.

“His progress I keep hearing is very positive that he’s going to be out of the program,” Waddell told First Up on TSN 1050 Thursday. “Unfortunately, as the team, you don’t get much information from doctors. I get most of my information from the agent so I’ve got to take it first hand that he knows the situation because he talks to Patrik. ”

Waddell added: “Patrik’s made it clear that, even before all the changes this summer, he would like a fresh start someplace. We will look at it when the time comes – which hopefully is very soon.”

TSN.can has the Laine update story.  Chicago Hockey Now indicates that the Blue Jackets are now looking for prospects and draft picks, instead of a roster play in the swap.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Michigan State goalie Trey Augustine will be among the Detroit prospects who will be at the World Junior s NSummer Showcase this week at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth.

The Red Wings have given Aaron Kahn the title of assistant general manager. He works on the business side of hockey operations, dealing specifically with salary cap and contract work.

Paywall story: Detroit Hockey Now reveals its Top 15 Red Wings Prospects heading into the 2024-25 season. Marco Kasper is No. 1 on our list.  To subscribe, click here.  To receive a $10 discount on a yearly subscription, use the promo code kevin10.

Red Wings Offseason

On Thursday, dignataries, including members of Gordie Howe’s family, were in town to celebrate the completion of the deck of the Gordie Howe Bridge connecting Windsor and the Detroit area.

Officials from Michigan, the US and Canada, as well as members of the Howe family, gathered yesterday on the @GordieHoweBrg to celebrate the completion of the bridge's deck. pic.twitter.com/nGWPTTDAyl

— Michigan DOT (@MichiganDOT) July 25, 2024

Hockey Now Network

Buffalo:  BHN’s Jason Moser looks at what the Sabres should do with their additional cap space. Buffalo Sabres.

Chicago: Does a Patrik Laine trade to Chicago make sense? Who would they give up? Nate Brown has some ideas. Chicago Blackhawks.

Montreal:  Marc Dumont offerst a detailed look at the Montreal prospect ratings. Montreal Canadiens.

Philadelphia: Sam Carchidi explores the pros and cons of Travis Konecny’s new $70 million contract. Philadelphia Flyers