Patrik Laine and Martin St. Louis look headed for a clean split in Montreal after a season that never gave Laine a real chance to settle in.
Laine knows where this is going. His run with the Canadiens is nearing its end, and he doesn't sound like a player fighting that reality.
What stands out is the tone.
There's no edge to it, no public frustration aimed at the organization, and no attempt to force a different reading of what happened.
The season left him with almost nothing to build on. At 28, he played only five games, and that kind of stop-and-start year can bury any rhythm a scorer needs.
That reality came through clearly in his own words.
"I didn't play much hockey, which isn't ideal for a hockey player; it was a frustrating year from that perspective." - Patrik Laine
For a player known for his release and power-play touch, spending long stretches away from the lineup was a rough place to sit. It turned a prove-it year into a waiting game.
Laine reveals he is ready to move on from Montreal
Still, Laine didn't make this about himself alone. He shifted the focus toward the room and the progress the Canadiens made around him.
“I'm just really proud of the guys and what they accomplished this year. I was just happy to be a part of it, whether on the ice or just trying to support and help them in any way I could. It's been one of those years.” - Patrik Laine
That says plenty about where his head is at. Even while his own season stalled, he framed his place in Montreal as part of a bigger push, not a personal grievance.
Now the story is moving toward free agency, and Laine didn't exactly leave much room for suspense when he spoke about what comes next.
“I'm looking forward to seeing where the wind takes me next year. I'm excited to discover new opportunities and see where they lead.
For now, I'm not too worried. I'm going to take a step back and relax first, then get back to work.
We'll see where the wind takes me.” - Patrik Laine
That sounds like a player already closing one chapter. Unless something changes fast, his Canadiens stint is done.
-
The next contract likely comes with less risk for a team and more pressure on Laine to stay available.
Even so, his shot still gives him value, especially on a power play that needs a one-touch finisher.
Montreal may be moving on, but Laine doesn't sound stuck in the fallout. He sounds like a player ready to reset and chase one more real opening.
Should the Canadiens have kept Patrik Laine for another season?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
Two surprise players announce breakup with the Oilers after Mike Babcock news
