The return of Patrik Laine has been a much-needed breath of fresh air for the Montreal Canadiens.
His presence in the lineup instantly bolsters the Habs’ top six, but is it enough to push Montreal back into the playoff picture? According to one former Canadiens coach, it just might be.
In his latest column for TVA Sports, Michel Therrien had high praise for Laine, who scored a power-play goal on Tuesday in his debut with the team.
Therrien, who coached the Canadiens from 2001 to 2003 and again from 2012 to 2017, noted that this was the roster Montreal’s management envisioned before a preseason injury sidelined the sniper.
“When Canadiens management indicated at the golf tournament that they saw themselves in the ‘mix’ this season, it was Tuesday night’s lineup they had in mind,” he wrote.
Interestingly, the 26-year-old’s debut marked the first time Martin St-Louis had a full lineup (no injured players) since he took the head coach job back in 2022.
Therrien added that Laine’s arrival has sparked newfound energy among players in the locker room.
“Having been part of some teams that made major trades to bring players to the top of their careers, I know that such an acquisition generates excitement among players. Everyone is excited in the room and often, it shows on the ice,” the 61-year-old wrote.
While Tuesday’s game was a success, Therrien emphasized the importance of building momentum if the Habs are serious about making their postseason dream a reality.
“They absolutely must take advantage of the fact that the next four games are also at home to get back to being dominant at the Bell Centre,” he noted. “I hope that the excitement from Tuesday will continue. If they can have a good home game, they will find themselves in the famous ‘mix.’”
Currently sitting last in the NHL’s Atlantic Division, they’ve certainly got their work cut out for them.
The Habs take on the Nashville Predators in Montreal tonight. Puck drop is set for 7 pm ET.
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