When the Finnish forward was introduced to the team prior to their opening night matchup with the Toronto Maple Leafs in Montreal, Canadiens supporters in the stands gave him a standing ovation.
When Laine's name was revealed, Canadiens supporters erupted in applause. Head coach Martin St. Louis gave the Canadiens forward a pat on the back while he grinned at the spectators.
Jordan Leigh, Laine's fiancée, thanked the Habs fans for their standing ovation in a heartfelt post on social media following the game.
It was undoubtedly one of my favorite parts of the evening, and I have to say that Laine was extremely touched by this display of love, as Martin St. Louis said.
We have no idea how much this must have meant to him or how much drive it must have given him to go on.
The Montreal Canadiens went on to win their game against the Maple Leafs with a stunning performance by Montembeault.
Patrik Laine, who is 26 years old, scored nine goals in eighteen games with the Columbus Blue Jackets the previous season. In 480 games throughout his career in the National Hockey League, he has amassed 388 points (204 goals).
Due to a knee sprain he suffered on September 28 during a preseason game against the Maple Leafs, Laine will be sidelined for two to three months. However, the supporters will cheer him on as he recovers and are eager to see him play hockey.
POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 10 | 125 ANSWERS Patrik Laine's Fiancée Jordan Leigh sends heartfelt message to Montreal Canadiens fans Will the Montreal Canadiens still be in the playoff race when Patrik Laine returns? | ||
Yes | 65 | 52 % |
No | 60 | 48 % |
List of polls |