The return of Patrik Laine could be advantageous for several Canadiens players, including Lane Hutson. During Tuesday night’s game, the rookie defenseman effectively set up Laine for a power-play goal, showcasing their potential chemistry. This dynamic is likely to continue in the coming weeks, prompting Martin St-Louis to keep them together on the first power-play unit.
This partnership could benefit both players in distinct ways. Hutson’s skillful passes to Laine could enhance Laine’s confidence, while Laine’s goal-scoring could improve Hutson’s individual statistics as a rookie. Hutson currently ranks second among NHL rookies with 16 points in 25 games, just behind Matvei Michkov, who leads with 19 points.
Laine’s presence could not only elevate Hutson’s performance but also impact other teammates positively. Specifically, players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield could attain significant personal achievements with Laine’s assistance. Suzuki might achieve the 82-point milestone for the first time in his career, while Caufield could reach impressive goal totals if he receives quality passes from Laine.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that Laine is not only a prolific goal scorer but also an exceptional playmaker. Additionally, players such as Kirby Dach and Juraj Slafkovsky could also reap the rewards of having Laine alongside them. The hope is that Laine stays healthy, as his contributions are essential for both the team and the fans.
