Patrik Laine returns to the ice with the Canadiens as trade rumors swirl
While the rumor mill goes into overdrive and sends Patrik Laine to all corners of the NHL, the man at the center of it all chose to answer on the ice.
It was a hopeful scene this morning at the Brossard practice facility, far from the speculation.
The Finnish forward was officially back on the ice with his teammates, a clear sign that his rehabilitation has reached a crucial stage.
Observer Marc-Olivier Cook confirmed that Laine took part in an impromptu session and is preparing to return to play.
Let’s be honest, for a guy whose name constantly comes up in trade talks, he looks awfully invested in getting back in the lineup with the Canadiens.
The small group had some fun with 3-on-3 sequences for a good thirty minutes.
Seeing the sniper engage physically and flash a smile with his teammates is the best news of the day.
The return is fast approaching for Patrik Laine and the Montreal Canadiens
Even though there were no other structured drills on the schedule, simply having several players on the ice does wonders for team morale.
All signs point to Laine’s return coming sooner rather than later, as Cook highlighted.
This morning session throws a bit of cold water on those who believed his time in Montreal was running out.
Laine appears determined to prove he can still be a key piece of this offense, not just trade currency.
It remains to be seen how his body will respond to the increased intensity, but this morning’s footage is encouraging.
After the 3-on-3 session, four players then joined the ice, including Laine himself.
Evans, Laine and the two goalies decided to get on the ice.
The guys had some fun playing 3-on-3 for about thirty minutes. No other drills.
But seeing that there were so many players on the ice this morning feels good. The return is getting close!
- Marc-Olivier Cook
The guys had some fun playing 3-on-3 for about thirty minutes. No other drills.
But seeing that there were so many players on the ice this morning feels good. The return is getting close!
- Marc-Olivier Cook
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