Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
We have an interesting update on Patrik Laine, a name Montreal Canadiens fans know well.
Laine is back on the ice in a competitive Florida summer league, and he is still wearing Canadiens-colored equipment.
A free agent since July 1, the Finnish forward remains without a team for next season. Every appearance now gives NHL clubs another chance to evaluate his health and conditioning.
The former Canadiens winger missed almost all of last season, but he appears to be fully healthy again.
Returning to game action matters for Laine, especially with teams still deciding whether his shot and power-play value justify another contract.
The league features several established NHL players.
One detail stands out in the footage shared by SoFlo Hockey.
Laine steps into his release with confidence and sends the puck off his stick with the same speed that made him one of the league’s most dangerous shooters.
Patrik Laine’s power-play value keeps NHL interest alive
His value remains easy to identify.
Laine struggled to create consistent offensive output at five-on-five during his time in Montreal, but he remained a major threat on the power play.
Two years ago, he scored 20 goals in 52 games, including 15 with the man advantage.
That production could interest a team looking to add a proven shooting option to its special-teams unit.
In the right role, Laine can still provide value without being asked to carry a top line.
The summer footage won’t secure Laine an NHL deal by itself. But looking healthy, competing against NHL talent, and showing that his release remains dangerous gives teams another reason to take a closer look.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Patrik Laine makes a statement in return to the ice wearing Canadiens colors
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