David Kirouac-Imagn images
Patrik Laine has quickly become one of the NHL’s fairy tales this season. Eight games into his tenure with the Montreal Canadiens, he is delivering dynamic performances that fans dream big about. Are the stories from Montreal only positive? Or are they potentially problematic?
Before game No. 8, Laine scored six goals in his first seven games – the most goals in a Canadiens debut season in the last 90 years. And Laine’s impact is undeniable. His hat trick against the Buffalo Sabers, with three power play goals, reminded fans of the Laine of old and made a statement suggesting the sniper was back.
Brendan Gallagher summed up the buzz around Laine perfectly: “He’s dynamic, he’s exciting. He throws the puck into the net. He gives the fans a reason to cheer.” Gallagher also discussed how quickly Laine’s teammates took a liking to him. He has brought positive energy to the team, which is great to hear considering he left the NHL due to personal mental health issues.
The question remains, can Laine’s resurgence lead the Canadiens to a successful season? Or is this run he’s on unsustainable?
Is this score burst sustainable?
Laine’s start has been exciting, but his scoring drive, especially on the power play, has raised questions about how long he can keep it up. While his skills are undeniable, the Canadiens currently sit seventh in the Atlantic Division, seven points out of a playoff spot. If the Habs want to make a legitimate postseason push, Laine will need consistent production, and others on the roster will need to take their play to the next level.
A successful season for Laine would likely involve maintaining a point-per-game pace and remaining a lethal weapon on special teams. His presence in the power play has revitalized a unit that has struggled at times, and Laine has broken new ground with the man advantage. With his power play one-timer against the Red Wings Friday night, Laine became the seventh player (since 1933-34) to score each of his first seven goals with a franchise on the power play, and he is now the first player in NHL history to score seven power-play goals in his first eight games with a team. But over-reliance on one player can be risky.
So also: where is his 5-on-5 production? Being a weapon in the power play is great, and it’s a wonderful tool to have in the Canadiens’ toolbox. But not every team will give the Canadiens six power play opportunities.
Can Laine spark the Canadiens?
If Laine can keep up with what he’s doing — or, honestly, stay close — it’s huge for the Canadiens.
Laine’s energy and scoring touch could be a catalyst for the Canadiens. Players like Gallagher and Nick Suzuki have praised his contributions, and his resurgence could inspire a collective step forward. If Montreal’s young core and veterans can get behind Laine’s momentum, a spot in the playoffs may not be out of reach.
Even if the Canadiens don’t make the postseason, remaining competitive in a tough division would be a positive sign for the direction of the franchise. A strong finish to the season could serve as a building block for the team and reaffirm Laine’s status as a cornerstone of their plans.
Fairytale ending for Laine and the Canadiens
Laine’s return to form has been exciting, but the Canadiens’ success depends on the team’s ability to match his energy. Whether they make the playoffs or fall just short, Laine’s story is one of the most uplifting stories of the season.
If the team can somehow string together a string of wins and all the pieces fall just right, it will be fascinating to see if they can ride the wave of momentum that his seven goals (all power play marks) have created.
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