Patrik Laine had a pivotal moment at the Bell Centre earlier this week when he scored his first goal of the season with the Canadiens. The fans responded immediately with a heartfelt ovation that moved him, although he humbly felt he didn’t merit such a grand reception. This display of support reflects how much the Montreal fans already appreciate him.
Laine’s arrival with the Canadiens follows some difficult phases in his career, yet this warm welcome indicates the fans’ eagerness to support and see him thrive.
There are even suggestions from Jean-Luc Grand-Pierre that Laine may consider extending his contract in Montreal for a lower salary if he continues to enjoy the supportive atmosphere. After facing challenges in both Winnipeg and Columbus, he might be inclined to accept less than his current $8.7 million salary to remain in the city.
Laine’s contract is set until the 2025-2026 season, giving Kent Hughes time to assess the possibility of a contract extension. If he maintains his health and performance level, he could be a valuable asset for the Canadiens.
With Laine’s presence, along with the anticipated addition of Ivan Demidov and the development of Michael Hage, the Habs could experience significant offensive growth. The prospect of a strong top six lineup featuring Laine and Demidov looks promising:
Caufield-Suzuki-Demidov
Laine-Dach/Hage-Slaf
Patrik Laine appears to be establishing himself in Montreal, where he is warmly embraced by the fans.
Do you think he will still be with the Canadiens a few years down the line, after his current contract expires? Should Kent Hughes pursue a contract extension for him?
