Bad luck seems to follow Patrik Laine everywhere he goes. After a tough NHL journey with the Winnipeg Jets and Columbus Blue Jackets, he was ready for a fresh start with the Montreal Canadiens. Unfortunately, Laine was injured five minutes into his second preseason game with the Habs.
Last night, the Canadiens kicked off their season in Montreal with a 1-0 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs. Before the game, the organization held a spectacular ceremony involving a live band and orchestra. All players were presented to the fans, including Patrik Laine, who stood alongside the injured and scratched players.
When his name resonated in the Bell Center, he received a big ovation from Habs fans. Head coach Martin St-Louis confirmed after the game that Laine was touched, even if he didn't show it too much at the moment.
Watch the emotional scene in the following video:
After the game, Laine's fiancee Jordan Leigh shared a heartfelt message to the Canadiens' fans on Instagram.
Here's what she posted in her story:
After all the couple went through in the past few years, it's great to know that they are finally in a positive atmosphere despite the injury setback.
When he returns to the ice, Laine will have all he needs to succeed. Everyone in Montreal supports him and wants to help him achieve his goals.
The Habs posted the following video on X after the game. Towards the end, we can see Laine celebrating the win with his teammate Cole Caufield in the locker room.
Check it out:
Caufield had a reason to celebrate, as he scored the only goal of the game and the first of the Canadiens' season. During a powerplay, the Habs were controlling the puck in the Leafs zone, and Caufield capitalized on a great pass from Juraj Slafkovsky.
This was Caufield's first game with the number 13, in honor of his former teammate and idol Johnny Gaudreau. After his goal, he pointed to the sky - another great moment in a special game.
The Canadiens will be back in action tonight as they visit the Boston Bruins for their rivals' home opener. It promises to be another emotional game, especially with Jeremy Swayman set to play his first game since signing his contract.
POLL | ||
Do you think Patrik Laine will score 20 goals or more this season with the Montreal Canadiens? | ||
Yes | 132 | 58.1 % |
No | 95 | 41.9 % |
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