Wasn’t just autographs being signed by the Winnipeg Jets 2016 1st round pick Patrik Laine as he inked a three year entry level deal as well.
Audio:
Topics: Had a week in the city, what has he learned? What was it like to get the contract signed? What did he think of the reception from the fans? What was the reaction back in Finland when he went second overall? Surprised by the celebrity status he has received in Winnipeg? Has he had a chance to check out the city? How much time will he need before he gets back on the ice? How much is he looking forward to the World Cup? Anything he learned in the World Championship in Russia? On the injury he suffered. What was the most interesting think you signed? Did Mark Scheifele talk about the way Team Canada focused on Laine in the World Championship? Has it sunk in yet that this is now real? Who does he skate with back home? Any purchases in mind for that signing bonus?
Jets Release:
The Winnipeg Jets announced they have agreed to terms with 2016 first-round pick and second overall selection Patrik Laine on a three-year NHL Entry-Level Contract worth an average annual value of $3.575 million which includes $2.65 million in bonuses.
Laine, 18, lead his team Tappara, to a Finnish SM-liiga Championship, scoring 33 points (17G, 16A) in 46 regular season games to go along with 15 points (10G, 5A) in 18 playoff games. Laine won the Jari Kurri Award for being the best player in the playoffs. He was also named SM-liiga rookie of the year and had the most points of any rookie in the Finish elite league.
Internationally, he led Finland to an IIHF World Junior Championship win on home soil in Helsinki. He was named to the World Junior Championship all-star team after leading the tournament in goals with seven. Laine was named to Finland’s World Championship Team, winning a silver medal along with being named the World Championship’s Most Valuable Player. Along with his MVP award, he was named to the tournament all-star team and the event’s best forward after recording 12 points (7G, 5A) in 10 games.
