With three wins in their last four games, the vibes surrounding the Montreal Canadiens are pretty good right now.
A big part of that shift? The arrival of Patrik Laine, who’s made an immediate impact with three goals in his first four games as a Hab. But beyond his scoring touch, it seems Laine has brought more than just offence to the team — he’s also bringing the laughs.
According to linemate Juraj Slafkovsky, Montreal’s new sniper is quickly establishing himself as the team’s resident comedian.
“He says the most random sh*t I’ve ever heard,” Slafkovsky said with a grin after Monday night’s win against the Anaheim Ducks. “It’s crazy. I just laugh on the bench all the time.”
Pressed for specifics by reporters, Slafkovsky only added to the intrigue.
“It’s just like his comments, you know? You wouldn’t expect these outrageous things that he’s saying.”
Some light-hearted #GoHabsGo off day content from last night: #Habs Juraj Slafkovský provides some insight into what line-mate Patrik Laine talks about on the bench ⤵ pic.twitter.com/QtFCWZO67X
— Priyanta Emrith (@HabsInHighHeels) December 10, 2024
The 20-year-old eventually revealed that the Finnish forward’s bench banter is not suitable for all audiences.
“Yeah, it’s not for cameras,” he added. “I’ll tell you guys when you meet me outside Bell Centre.”
With each member of Montreal’s second line getting on the scoresheet in their last game, perhaps keeping things light is a recipe for success.
All jokes aside, Laine, who was acquired by Montreal in an offseason trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets, seems very comfortable in a Canadiens uniform.
“I can’t really complain. I think it’s really cool how the first four games have gone so far,” Laine told Prime reporter Thomas Hickey after netting a regulation goal and the shootout winner last night.
“It’s just awesome to play in this building. I think it’s the most fun I’ve had in years.”
"Most fun I've had in years."
PATRIK LAINE IS HOME. 💙 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Fl6pp5OyLr
— Sports on Prime Canada (@SportsOnPrimeCA) December 10, 2024
The Canadiens will play their fifth of five straight home games this Thursday when they take on the Pittsburgh Penguins.