Report: Teams checking in with Laine's camp

Teams around the NHL have checked in with agent Mike Liut amid Winnipeg Jets winger Patrik Laine's contract stalemate, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported on Monday's edition of "Insider Trading."

"And now, are they checking in because of a potential offer sheet? Or are they checking in because maybe they want to call Winnipeg and try and trade for Patrik Laine? I'm not saying either one is happening. I'm just saying teams are getting curious about that situation," LeBrun said.

In addition to Laine, teammate Kyle Connor also remains unsigned. Moreover, the Jets are also awaiting a decision on Dustin Byfuglien's future. It's been a hectic time for general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff, but it hasn't stopped him from trying to improve his team.

"The Jets are talking to teams about potential trades," TSN's Darren Dreger said on "Insider Trading" without naming specific players. "But with the Byfuglien situation still out there, it's hard to do anything."

Liut said last week that Laine and the Jets were not close to an agreement. However, these negotiations can always change with a single phone call. Laine's situation appears to be more contentious than the other remaining RFAs, though, as he ruffled some feathers last week when he complained about his usage and took a jab at his linemates.

Laine is one of the NHL's most prolific goal-scorers, but he's also rather inconsistent. Last season he scored 30 goals, but 18 of them came in November. One of the league's most polarizing players, Laine has also drawn criticism for his defensive play and lack of effort in the past.

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