“Lots of people, lots of cameras. »
These were the first words used by Patrik Laine in front of reporters during the traditional Canadiens golf tournament, Monday in Laval-sur-le-Lac.
This is the first time the 26-year-old Finn has spoken to the media in person since the trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets that sent him to Montreal.
“So far, everyone is welcoming. Everyone I’ve talked to loves playing here,” Laine said.
Who says start of training camp, surely says expectations for next season. The winger had a short season in 2023-24, where he played 18 games and recorded nine points. Last January, he joined the NHL and Players’ Association player assistance program. He left the program in the summer.
At this point in the program it seems that the second pick of the 2016 draft has changed for the better without really expecting anything from his new team.
“I always want to be the best I can be. But this is just a game that we have the opportunity to practice our favorite game as a job, he pointed out. We should not be hard on ourselves. It’s a good challenge personally this year mentally. »
“I hope to be healthy and have fun. I believe that if you have these two things, you can be successful. »