After nearly a year-long wait — 355 days, to be exact — Patrik Laine is set to make his Montreal Canadiens regular-season debut tonight against the New York Islanders at the Bell Centre. It’s been a challenging absence for the star forward, who suffered an injury during the preseason shortly after his offseason trade to Montreal. After months of recovery, Laine is ready to rejoin the team, and the excitement surrounding his return has started.
Canadiens Officially Activate Laine From Injured Reserve
The Canadiens officially confirmed Laine’s activation off injured reserve on Tuesday, with all signs pointing to his return to action tonight. His participation was solidified after joining Tuesday’s morning skate, indicating he’s fully prepared to hit the ice again. In response, Montreal made roster adjustments, including loaning forward Joshua Roy to the Laval Rocket and potentially placing goaltender Carey Price on Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR) for cap flexibility.
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Laine’s return comes at a critical point in the season for the Canadiens, who are now at a crossroads in their playoff aspirations. With his lethal shot and offensive instincts, Laine’s presence could provide the spark Montreal needs to start their push toward the postseason. Laine’s return marks a much-awaited and exciting moment for the team and its fans as the Canadiens look to reignite their offensive game. All eyes will be on Laine as he steps back onto the ice tonight.
Laine’s Return Feels Like ‘An Early Christmas Present’ for the Canadiens”
Canadiens forward Kirby Dach shared his excitement about Laine’s long-awaited return to the lineup during a media availability. Dach described Laine’s debut in Montreal as “kind of like an early Christmas present,” highlighting the boost the star winger could bring to his line and the team. Here’s what Dach and others are saying about the impact Laine’s presence might have.
Dach emphasized how much Laine’s return means to the team. As a dynamic scorer and playmaker, Laine can dominate with his size and skill. Dach noted that Laine’s transition game and physicality make him a crucial addition, especially for the Canadiens’ offensive depth.
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“He’s a big body who hangs on to the puck and uses it well,” Dach said. “It’s exciting to have someone like that back in the lineup.” For Dach, Laine’s energy and skillset could reinvigorate the team during a challenging season.
Can Laine Help the Canadiens Build Momentum?
Dach also highlighted how Laine’s return has energized the team and the fanbase. The anticipation surrounding his debut in Montreal has created a buzz in the locker room and among Canadiens supporters. Dach suggested this excitement could help the team build momentum and push forward.
“The energy he brings is contagious,” said Dach. “The crowd is fired up, and hopefully, we can ride that wave.”
While everyone is excited about Laine’s return, Dach acknowledged that the star winger may have expectations to manage. “I’m sure he’s got expectations for himself,” Dach remarked, adding that the team’s primary focus is helping Laine succeed and ensuring his smooth transition into the lineup.
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The Canadiens are optimistic that Laine’s skill set and work ethic will shine through, but they also understand the need for patience as he regains his rhythm.
Can Laine Create a New Career Chapter in Montreal?
Laine’s return to the lineup feels like more than another game for the Canadiens—an opportunity to reset and refocus. Dach’s enthusiasm captures how much Laine’s presence can mean to the team, both on and off the ice.
As the Canadiens ride the energy of Laine’s debut, the hope is that his return can spark a stronger performance. Whether this moment turns out to be the beginning of a resurgence or simply a bright spot in the season remains to be seen, but for now, Laine’s return is a gift the Canadiens are more than happy to unwrap.
