Patrik Laine makes a strong gesture alongside Lane Hutson that shows his commitment to the team
We witnessed an interesting scene live from the Bell Centre in the last few minutes, involving forward Patrik Laine.
For the first time since his injury, Patrik Laine was the first player to jump onto the ice this morning for the Canadiens' morning skate.
Well, well. It brings back memories of what we saw early in the season, when Laine was fully motivated.
Interesting.
The Montreal Canadiens even made it official with a short release:
It's a big gesture, a clear message to management showing that he's ready, and it could indicate that he'll be in uniform tonight.
For the first time in a long while, Patrik Laine was the first player on the ice today
We say "first," but he was obviously accompanied by the tireless Lane Hutson.
In short, this is the first time since Laine's injury that we've seen him make this kind of move, and it didn't go unnoticed.
Given the current context, it's an easy signal to read.
The team is already dealing with a surplus of forwards, and every return speeds up the decision-making process.
Last season with the Canadiens, Laine played 52 games, scoring 20 goals and adding 13 assists for 33 points.
This season, he has played five games and recorded one point, making every shift an opportunity to get things going again.
Overall, we're talking about an established NHL scorer. Laine has played 537 career games, scoring 224 goals and totaling 422 points.
Does this mean he'll be in uniform tonight against the Buffalo Sabres?
Not guaranteed, as mentioned above, but it clearly opens the door.
The answer will come at Martin St-Louis' press conference, and as usual, we'll read between the lines until then.
Also read on Montreal Hockey Fanatics :
It appears decided for three players, including Patrik Laine, for the game against the Sabres
It appears decided for three players, including Patrik Laine, for the game against the Sabres
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 22|1826 ANSWERS Patrik Laine makes a strong gesture alongside Lane Hutson that shows his commitment to the team Does Laine still have a spot with the Canadiens in your opinion? | ||
| Yes | 373 | 20.4 % |
| No | 1453 | 79.6 % |
| List of polls | ||