Patrik Laine will begin his season this evening, when he will find himself on the second unit of the Montreal Canadiens, accompanied by Kirby Dach and Juraj Slafkovsky.
In addition to finding himself on a top unit, Laine will have playing time on one of the massive attack units. Remember that, during the moments when Laine and Lane Hutson were together, several flashes took place.
That said, following Tuesday’s morning training, journalists were excited to talk with the big Finn, who was smiling broadly heading into tonight’s duel.
Here is what I remember from the speech submitted by Laine:
“I have to look at the expectations a little bit, but I probably won’t. I should know. But I probably expect, as soon as I step on the ice, to pick up where I left off. It may happen, it may not happen… I have to be patient and give myself time.”
Is it necessary to remember that we, as fans, must manage our expectations of Patrik Laine, since he will need time to reconnect with all his bearings?
Obviously, after almost a year away from the ice for a regular game, we can understand Patrik Laine being so feverish!
“It’s been almost a year since I last played a real match. I’m especially excited at the idea of finally getting it over with, getting back on the ice with the guys, so I’m happy!”
Everyone is very excited by this return, especially since the excitement was at its peak during his addition and during the moments when he made some great plays in the preparatory calendar… before suffering this nasty knee injury.
Tonight’s duel risks being viewed by more than 500,000 people via RDS, no less!
