Montreal Canadiens’ Patrik Laine talked about his return to Winnipeg. (Source: Imagn)
Patrik Laine’s 2024-25 season has been full of ups and downs. He joined the Montreal Canadiens in August after a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets. Laine scored a goal in his debut, helping the Canadiens secure a 2-1 overtime win against the New York Islanders.
Since returning from injury, he has played six games, scored three goals, and logged four points. He averages 16:17 minutes on the ice per game.
Laine missed 2-3 months due to a left knee sprain suffered in a preseason collision with Toronto’s Cedric Pare. Though the injury did not require surgery, it kept him off the ice for a long stretch.
Talking to Jennifer Botterill on the Sportsnet broadcast, Laine talked about his return to Winnipeg.
“Yeah, I mean, I’ve been here a couple of times now, so it’s not my first time back, but I think it’s always exciting.” Laine said, “You know, seeing those 29 jerseys, and you know everybody’s excited for you, and I did enjoy the whole time I was here. These fans are unbelievable, and you know it’s just always a nice warm welcome back.”
Kevin Bieksa asked Laine about his hilarious comments during games when players are on the bench. Responding to which, Laine said:
“I just like to talk and say funny things if I see something.
He also talked about his mental health and said:
“I just kind of learned to have positive conversations with myself.” Laine said, “You know, I’ve always been kind of negative towards myself, and that’s kind of something I’ve learned to do. You speak nice things to yourself because your brain can’t figure out if it’s somebody else saying those things to you or yourself. So just try to stay positive and say nice things about yourself”
"It's always exciting seeing those 29 jerseys." 👏
Patrik Laine joins the panel to discuss his return to Winnipeg, his leadership, and his battle with mental health. pic.twitter.com/6kMkg2j2o5
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) December 15, 2024
Patrik Laine’s leadership remains crucial for the Canadiens’ season.
Patrik Laine and the Montreal Canadiens lost 4-2 to the Winnipeg Jets
The Montreal Canadiens lost 4-2 to the Winnipeg Jets on Saturday at Canada Life Centre. Lane Hutson scored his first NHL goal at 7:48 of the first period, giving Montreal a 1-0 lead. Gabriel Vilardi tied it 1-1 at a power play, finishing Kyle Connor’s pass. Adam Lowry put Winnipeg ahead 2-1.
Kyle Connor made it 3-1 in the second period. Josh Anderson cut the lead to 3-2 at 8:00 of the third. Vladislav Namestnikov secured Winnipeg’s win with an empty-net goal at 19:54.
Montreal’s effort was strong, and Patrik Laine recorded 7 shots on goal in 16:13 minutes of ice time. Winnipeg’s special teams and key plays made the difference.
