The Montreal Canadiens will be facing a significant challenge at the start of the 2024-25 NHL season without Patrik Laine, who is set to miss up to three months due to a knee sprain from a collision with Toronto Maple Leafs forward Cedric Pare. Laine, who was acquired from the Columbus Blue Jackets just this past August, has only had a brief opportunity to establish himself with the Canadiens, having played only two preseason games before this unfortunate injury.
Losing a player of Laine’s caliber, especially so early in his tenure with the team, is undoubtedly a setback. However, Montreal’s coaching staff is making efforts to keep Laine engaged during his recovery. His inclusion in the team’s bonding trip to Tremblant demonstrates a commitment to fostering camaraderie and ensuring that he feels like a part of the team despite being sidelined.
The Canadiens will need to adapt their strategy without Laine’s offensive prowess, particularly as they prepare to face their rivals, the Toronto Maple Leafs, in their season opener on October 9. His absence will put additional pressure on other forwards to step up and fill the void, making it crucial for the team to maintain a strong start to the season while Laine recuperates.
The Montreal Canadiens are set to practice in Mont-Tremblant on Thursday and Friday, a city located nearly two hours outside of Montreal. This practice session will serve as a team bonding experience before they head on the road to face the Ottawa Senators this weekend.
With Patrik Laine sidelined for up to three months, these practices will be crucial for the team to build chemistry and adapt to his absence. The Canadiens will look to focus on their strategies and ensure that they are prepared for their upcoming matchup against the Senators as they kick off the new season.
The Montreal Canadiens’ decision to include Patrik Laine in their team bonding trip to Mont-Tremblant reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting him during this challenging time. Despite being sidelined for up to three months due to a knee sprain, Laine’s presence on the trip highlights the coaching staff’s efforts to ensure he remains engaged and connected with the team.
Head coach Martin St. Louis emphasized this approach, stating that the goal is to make Laine feel “excited to come to the rink” even while dealing with his injury. After Laine was seen on the bench using crutches and a knee brace during Monday’s practice, the team’s initiative to include him indicates a positive and inclusive culture within the organization. This support will be vital for Laine as he navigates his recovery while fostering a sense of camaraderie with his teammates.
Laine will join the Canadiens' team bonding trip to Tremblant. #Habs
— Kenzie Lalonde (@KenzieTSN) October 2, 2024
Patrik Laine’s injury is certainly a setback for the Montreal Canadiens as they aim to return to playoff contention, especially after his struggles last season with the Columbus Blue Jackets. The 2016 second-overall pick was looking to revive his scoring touch in Montreal, having posted only six goals and three assists in 18 games last season. Laine has consistently been a scoring threat throughout his career, accumulating 204 goals and 184 assists over 480 games, maintaining an impressive 0.81 point-per-game pace.
His anticipated return in late December or January will be crucial for the Canadiens, who haven’t made the playoffs since 2022. Laine’s ability to score—having achieved six 20-goal seasons—could significantly impact the team’s chances of breaking their playoff drought. Until he’s back on the ice, Laine’s involvement in team activities and bonding experiences will help him stay connected with his teammates and maintain a positive outlook during his recovery.
Leave a Reply