Columbus Blue Jackets standout forward Patrik Laine shocked the hockey community earlier this season when he announced his decision to step away from the team and the NHL to prioritize his mental health and well-being.

Laine entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program on January 28th, and since then, he has not returned to action.

Unfortunately, the latest update on Laine's situation brings more disappointment. Columbus Blue Jackets President of Hockey Operations, John Davidson, delivered the news on Saturday that Laine will not be returning to play for the remainder of this season.

"John Davidson told Aaron Portzline of The Athletic that «[Patrik Laine] won't be back this season."

This means that Laine will have only played in 18 games this season for the Blue Jackets, tallying 6 goals and 3 assists, totaling 9 points.

Currently in the second year of a 4-year contract he signed in 2022, with an average annual value of $8.7 million, Laine's future return remains uncertain. However, as an NHL player, he has access to resources like the Player Assistance Program, which hopefully will aid in his full recovery from his current challenges.

Do you think Patrik Laine will score 30+ goals next season?

As seen on Blade Of Steel
Columbus Blue Jackets provide update on Patrik Laine

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