5 Players That Are Ready to Take the Next Step for the Columbus Blue Jackets

Forward Patrik Laine came to the Blue Jackets in a trade with the Winnipeg Jets and has been good for the team. After a slow start, and some disagreements with the coaching staff, Laine has settled down and re-signed with Columbus on a new deal.

He might not be the elite player we thought he was going to be, but he has been a solid player since arriving in the NHL. Laine still has a lethal shot that he can use in any situation and is becoming an all-around good offensive player.

With his defensive game still in question, he will have to continue to work on his passing and may have to hit the 50-goal mark if it means the Blue Jackets sneak into the playoffs. In his short career with the Blue Jackets, Laine has 36 goals and 41 assists for 77 points in 101 games.

While Laine still has the makeup to be an elite offensive force, he has to be consistent enough to be considered a top player in the league. His willingness to get his teammates involved shows he is growing as a player and one that can still compete for the Rocket Richard Trophy.

Laine, along with Gaudreau, can lead the Blue Jackets to the playoffs. It is a matter of how soon and how much roster turnover there is.

Laine is still an asset that is capable of leading the team in goals and points. Now, Laine will most likely have Gaudreau on his line, which could create a dangerous scoring line. That line alone could sneak them into the playoffs this season.