Alain Crête is probably going through one of the worst periods of his career.
After publicly questioning Patrik Laine’s future with the Montreal Canadiens, the famous RDS analyst is facing a tidal wave of unprecedented criticism.
Last night, Laine was once again dazzling, scoring his first even-strength goal to bring his total to 10 goals in 15 games, cementing his status as the team’s offensive star.
Meanwhile, Crete is suffering a public meltdown on social media that shows no signs of letting up.
It all started a few weeks ago, when Crête, on RDS, declared that Laine was a “temporary” player and that he did not see a long-term future for the Finn in Montreal. Among his most scathing remarks:
“Me, quite honestly, I don’t think there is a very long-term future with the Canadian. Not all year round. I think it’s a temporary measure. »
« The fact that he was coming back, we were like ‘wow, we’re finally going to be able to see that’. But I don’t think he’ll be a player capable of carrying a team long term. »
These comments immediately sparked controversy, but last night, as Laine continued to respond on the ice with another remarkable performance, the criticism against Crete reached a peak.
Above all, the public did not appreciate Crête’s contemptuous tone. We must admit that the tone of his voice was very haughty and condescending, as if he was looking down on Laine.
@bpmsportsradio “Honestly, I don’t think Laine has a long-term future with CH! » – Alain Crête ???? What do you think? ????⚪️???? #ch #Habs #laine #clubdumatin ♬ original sound – BPMSPORTSRADIO
His words really ignited the powder
Crête suggested that Patrik Laine did not have a long-term place in Montreal, that his five-on-five impact was non-existent, and that his only use lay in the power play.
According to Crête, Laine is slow, he drags his skates, and apart from on the power play, he is useless.
These remarks quickly made the rounds on social networks, amplified by sites specializing in hockey which summarized his remarks in an even more sharp and sensationalist manner:
“Alain Crête announces the end of Laine in Montreal”.
As luck would have it, following these criticisms, Patrik Laine offered one of his most complete performances since his arrival in Montreal.
The Finn even seemed to play with extra energy, as if he wanted to send a direct message to those who still doubt his impact.
Unfortunately for Alain Crête, the Internet is not forgiving.
We must also remember the importance of not involving those close to a public figure in controversies of this type.
A question is now burning on the lips of many hockey fans: will Alain Crête apologize? For now, the veteran journalist has remained silent, which only fuels speculation.
On the one hand, some believe that he would do well to admit his mistake, especially after Laine’s brilliant performance.
On the other hand, others argue that Crete should simply let the storm pass and avoid giving his detractors more ammunition.
Patrik Laine, meanwhile, continues to focus on hockey and has proven he can respond in the best way possible: on the ice.
Perhaps it is time for Alain Crête to do the same, by publicly apologizing or offering a more nuanced analysis in the future.
In the meantime, one thing is certain: Patrik Laine is determined to make his detractors lie, and his story with the Montreal Canadiens is only just beginning.
Social networks were in turmoil last night, and the comments regarding Crête were without penitence. Here is a sample of the reactions:
“Alain Crête must be hiding under a rock. Laine proves game after game that he was wrong. »
“The only temporary player here is Crête himself. We’re all waiting for him to retire. »
“Laine is everywhere on the ice tonight. Crête should take notes instead of talking for the sake of saying nothing. »
“It’s sad for Laine to constantly have to prove his worth because of dinosaurs like Crête who don’t understand anything about modern hockey. »
Some supporters even pushed the criticism so far as to demand that Crête be removed from the RDS airwaves.
“We cannot tolerate these kinds of uninformed comments on our airwaves. Crête must go. »
“Alain Crête has become the embodiment of everything that is wrong with sports analysts in Quebec. Enough is enough. »
Last night, he was everywhere, involved at every moment, dominating in all areas of the game.
Not only did he score a crucial goal, but he also played a physical role, crushing opponents in the corners of the ice and being a vocal leader on the bench.
“I just wanted to play my game, have fun and help the team. If I can continue to contribute like this, everything will be fine,” he declared after the match, visibly satisfied with his performance.
In addition, Crête was criticized for his reluctance to give up his place to young analysts at RDS. While his retirement is scheduled for 2026, several fans have expressed their wish to see him leave sooner, saying his analyzes are outdated.
“It’s time for Crête to bow out. His analyzes no longer reflect the reality of modern hockey. »
Unfortunately, this avalanche of criticism does not only affect Alain Crête, but also his family. Crête’s loved ones are clearly worried about him, shaken by the situation.
Alain Crête is human. He makes mistakes, but he doesn’t deserve this kind of treatment. It’s very hard for him and his loved ones.
“What Alain Crête said is totally stupid, but no one deserves such public harassment”wrote a user on social networks.
What emerges from this saga is the importance of not making hasty judgments on players, especially in a market as passionate and demanding as that of Montreal.
Patrik Laine, at 26 years old, is a player with a wealth of experience and undeniable talent. His recent performances prove that he is capable of establishing himself and contributing significantly to the team.
For Alain Crête, this difficult period could serve as a reflection on his analytical approach. The Montreal public is merciless, but it also knows how to recognize honesty and questioning.
While Patrik Laine continues to respond to his detractors with his performances on the ice, Alain Crête will have to find a way to regain the trust and respect of the public.
The lesson here is clear: in a market like Montreal, words carry weight, and every criticism must be based on solid facts.
For now, Crête will have to live with the consequences of his comments, while Laine seems more motivated than ever to prove his worth.
Time will tell if this saga will finally settle down, but one thing is crystal clear: the public will not soon forget this indirect confrontation between a veteran analyst and a superstar in full rebirth.
