CH: Patrik Laine joined a very select group

It’s now been a month and a half since the Montreal Canadiens have had the chance to count on the services of Patrik Laine, who returned from injury. Since its official debut with CH on December 3, the team has undergone a real metamorphosis. In 22 games since the arrival of number 92 under the Bleu-Blanc-Rouge colors, the team led by Martin St-Louis is among the three best troops in the National Hockey League (NHL).

However, Patrik Laine’s impact is not limited to collective performances. The Finn, after a prolonged absence of almost a year, raised a lot of questions about his potential contribution on the ice upon his return to form. With 18 games played this season, it is clear that his offensive production is restoring dynamism to the Canadiens. He has not only revitalized a once-struggling power play, but is also starting to take hold at five-on-five, where his initially slower adaptation is now paying off. His increased involvement on the ice translates into fairly constant offensive production.

Since his integration, Laine has become a centerpiece of the Habs, which his statistics confirm. Between December 17 and today, he has accumulated 11 points in just 12 games, the club’s fourth-best total in that span, despite playing fewer games than his more prolific teammates.

Sunday, during the face-to-face against the New York Rangers, the native of Tampere was the hero of overtime by scoring his 12th goal of the season, in his 18th duel.

This goal allowed him to achieve a rare feat: he became the third player in the history of Sainte-Flanelle to score at least 12 goals in his first 18 clashes with the Montreal squad. Before him, only Tyler Toffoli in 2020-2021 and Bobby Smith during the 1983-1984 campaign had accomplished this feat.

Those who doubted the compatibility between Cole Caufield and Patrik Laine within the same lineup can reconsider their judgment. In addition to shining individually, the combined presence of the two athletes offers a valuable offensive dynamic for the CH. Collectively, their impact is undeniable and greatly benefits the team’s performance.