Former NHLer reveals the best place for Patrik Laine to revive his NHL career
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
NHL analyst Mike Rupp points to the Tampa Bay Lightning as the ideal destination for Patrik Laine to get his NHL career fully back on track.
Finding the right landing spot for Patrik Laine remains a primary storyline of the NHL offseason.
Following a difficult run marked by injuries and extended time away from the ice, the gifted winger is searching for a fresh environment to rebuild his status as an elite scoring threat.
While various markets have surfaced in league chatter, former player and current NHL Network analyst Mike Rupp offered a compelling alternative during a recent appearance on the DFO Rundown with Jason Gregor.
Unlocking Power Play Dominance in Tampa Bay
According to Rupp, taking a discount to join a proven contender would immediately revitalize the Finnish sniper's trajectory.
Dropping Laine into the left circle opposite Kucherov creates an absolute nightmare for opposing penalty kills.
That elite deployment gives him space to unleash his dynamic release without having to drive an entire line by himself.
"I think if i'm Patrik Laine's camp, the best move to get his career back going to where he wants it to be... Honestly man, I would go to Tampa. I would get whatever contract they can do to fit you in and go down there and be on the other side of Nikita Kucherov (on the power play) and just be burying goals.
And maybe that could spill over to five on five play. Show a re-dedication to the game and other areas of the game.
Sign a one-year deal. Go down there and be on a good team that you don't have to be the man. I think that would be the best place to get his career back on track."
- Mike Rupp
And maybe that could spill over to five on five play. Show a re-dedication to the game and other areas of the game.
Sign a one-year deal. Go down there and be on a good team that you don't have to be the man. I think that would be the best place to get his career back on track."
- Mike Rupp
A Low Pressure Formula for Success
Beyond the tactical fit, joining an established Lightning core removes the heavy expectation of being the primary option.
Taking a short-term, cap-friendly agreement in Tampa Bay might just be the exact catalyst Laine needs.
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