Laine enters player assistance program

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, the league announced Sunday.

Laine will be unavailable indefinitely while receiving care. He can return to on-ice competition after receiving clearance from program administrators.

"Patrik has our complete support, and our sole concern is his well-being," Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said in a statement. "Out of respect for Patrik, we will have no further comment."

Laine addressed his absence in an Instagram story on Sunday night.

Patrik Laine on Instagram: pic.twitter.com/ZLj6DNQEm6

- Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 29, 2024

The Finn has missed significant time this season with multiple injuries. He has five goals and eight points in 17 games.

Laine hasn't played since sustaining a broken clavicle on Dec. 14. Head coach Pascal Vincent told reporters Friday that he had a setback in his recovery and was sent back to Columbus.

The 25-year-old reportedly rejoined teammates in practice two weeks ago and hoped to return to game action before the end of the Blue Jackets' road trip Tuesday.

Kekalainen is apparently willing to listen to trade offers for Laine. He's signed through 2025-26 at a $8.7-million cap hit.

Laine has 204 goals and 388 points in 480 career games between the Winnipeg Jets and Blue Jackets.

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