On December 21, 2024, during the match against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Montreal Canadiens faced not just their opponents but also disquieting news about one of their key players, Patrik Laine. After experiencing significant highs since his return from injury, Laine's unexpected absence from the bench to begin the second period sent ripples of concern through the Canadiens' fan base.
Laine, who had been enjoying a productive season, scoring eight goals and heavily contributing to power-play situations, found himself on the receiving end of hard hits from his former teammates. The Canadiens were well aware of Laine's scoring prowess and kept him as central to their game plan. Early reports indicated he was being targeted by opponents during the game, including notable exchanges with Blue Jackets defenseman Dante Fabbro.
Stu Cowan, writing for The Montreal Gazette, punctuated the moment's gravity: "Patrik Laine is not on the bench to start the second period; he’s staying in the locker room. It doesn’t look good." This statement echoed through the Canadiens’ locker room, where the atmosphere shifted from one of anticipation to concern. Laine's exit marked his first significant setback since recovering from injuries sustained during training camp, which had sidelined him for two months before he returned to action just ten games prior.
The matchup marked Laine's emotional return to face the Blue Jackets, the team he expressed frustration with before leaving. "I was tired of losing and the culture of losing there," he had stated during one of his earlier training sessions this season, indicating his desire to turn the page with the Canadiens.
Adding layers to the story, this encounter was supposed to serve as both competitive and nostalgic as plans for tribute acknowledgment by the Blue Jackets for Laine’s time spent there circulated. According to sports commentator Marc Denis, it was initially slated for broadcast, but the current circumstances led to speculation about its cancellation, extra weight added by the unfortunate nature of Laine’s injury.
Meanwhile, the game’s tension escalated as the scoreboard reflected the struggles both teams faced. Initially, the Canadiens rallied from being down, with a score of 3-1, to level the game at 3-3 by the second period. Goals from both Lane Hutson and Jake Evans reflected the fighting spirit of the Canadiens, who desperately sought their fourth consecutive win, particularly significant before heading off for the holiday break.
Laine had seemed to find his rhythm on the ice, displaying impressive form with his scoring output, and it was clear his presence on the power play revitalized the Canadiens’ game. Teammates reported feeling uplifted with Laine back on the ice, contributing to the healthier environment within the locker room, underscoring the bond they've forged through shared struggles and successes.
Despite the current uncertainty surrounding his health, fans and players alike are left hoping this injury won't set Laine back too far, as earlier performances suggested he was just beginning to hit his stride. The team now has to navigate his potential absence and maintain their momentum heading out on the road post-Christmas.
With only the second period unfolded and news of Laine still unknown, the fate of the Canadiens seemed precarious yet hopeful, prompt to lift each other as they pushed to not only win the game but preserve Laine’s hope of resurgence back to form.
