Another game at the Bell Centre, another beating. Except that this time, it was the Canadian who played the role of the aggressor. With Patrik Laine as the chief bully.
There are some players who don’t need to carry the puck from one end of the ice to the other to electrify the crowd. Mass attack specialists, especially those with a powerful and precise shot, can do this with practically two feet on the beanbag.
That’s what the Finn did in this 6-1 victory against the Sabres. Well installed in what became his office, he waited for precise passes from Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield to record his first hat trick in a Canadian uniform.
Three goals scored on the power play, which led to an avalanche of hats and caps.
Getty Images via AFP
This feat of arms had not been seen among the Canadian since Tomas Plekanec on February 29, 2008. Also against the Buffalo Sabres.
In fact, Laine became the 13th player in team history to achieve such a hat trick. On February 19, 1955, Bernard Geoffrion pushed the counter up to four.
The names of Yvan Cournoyer, on two occasions, Maurice Richard, Jean Béliveau and Guy Lafleur also appear on this short list. Bert Olmstead, Larry Robinson, Peter Mahovlich, Stéphane Richer and… Lyle Odelein are the others.
Moreover, Laine is the first Canadian player to score his first six with the club on the power play.
Stifling the Sabers on the way out
No, this time there were no boos from the heights of the amphitheater. More like Olé! Olé! It must be said that the Habs faced worse than him. But since with him, you never know, you could expect anything.
Moreover, the various betting sites had put the Sabers as favorites to win this match. A club that came to Montreal with 10 losses in a row on its record. This shows how everyone considers the Canadian as a box of surprises.
In the morning, Alex Newhook was clear on the strategy to adopt in the face of this animal, more injured than his own team.
“At times like these, you cling to every last particle of hope. We must not give them a single breath of life. »
Joel Armia applied the plan to perfection by opening the scoring in the 19th second.
Work first, reward later
Faced with this result, we can wonder if the end is not near for Kevyn Adam or Lindy Ruff, respectively general manager and head coach of the Sabres. Terry Pegula made a quick trip to Montreal to come and speak into the eyes of his players.
As a response, it’s hard to find a more insulting response.
But hey, we have enough worries in Montreal. No need to stick your nose in those of others.
On this subject, Juraj Slafkovsky made the red light sparkle for a rare time. A second time in 24 games. Some will say it was a lucky goal. It’s true. But the Slovak worked hard to keep this streak alive.
This is what we want to see more of him.
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