WINNIPEG JETS

This pick could be obsolete by the time this issue hits the stands, but as we go to press Laine remains a member of the Jets. The flashy winger has made it clear he’d like a fresh start elsewhere – speculation is he wants to play in a major market – but until then he’s the biggest fish in the smallish Winnipeg pond. And while he’s still wearing their colors, he’s the player most likely to benefit from the cross-Canada spotlight. Laine’s soft mitts won him the a ection of collectors right from the start. He’s averaged 35 goals per season, with high of 44 in 2017-18. Just six players have lit the lamp more often than the big Finn over the past four years, including Matthews, McDavid and Alex Ovechkin. That kind of company speaks to his excellence. Would his hobby profile rise if he played elsewhere? Possibly, but for now he’s going to be the star attraction in Winnipeg. And he’s committed to giving it his all as long as he’s a Jet. “I’m just worried about working hard here, being the best player I can be, and helping these other guys be at their best,” he said. “He’s committed to being a great player,” agreed coach Paul Maurice. Laine was brilliant on opening night, scoring twice, including the overtime game-winner, and adding an assist against the Flames. He also dropped his gloves in defense of teammate Kyle Connor, who’d been roughed up by Calgary defender Noah Hanifin. Exactly the sort of reaction you’d hope for, but still startling to see from a player whose hands aren’t exactly canned hams. While that fearlessness demonstrates his intentions to his teammates, it’s the goal scoring that earns hobby love. “He’s one of the most exciting players in the game,” said Laine collector Je Beth. “I think if he sticks around for the season, his cards could see a real boost from a Canada-only schedule. The Jets aren’t always on everyone’s must-watch list, so this schedule means more people will see him. That could do a lot to enhance his standing in the hobby. I think the rest of Canada could love him as much as I do.”

CARDS TO BUY NOW

2016-17 The Cup #175 2016-17 SP Authentic #147 2016-17 Upper Deck Premier #107