Laine Joins First Line Rotation at Canadiens’ Practice
The Montreal Canadiens have welcomed forward Patrik Laine back into their lineup during recent practice sessions. At 27 years old, Laine has been on the sidelines since October 16 following core muscle surgery. His initial recovery timetable was set between three to four months.
Laine’s First Line Rotation
During Wednesday’s practice, Laine participated in the first line, alternating with Alexandre Texier. He played along the right wing with Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki. So far this season, Laine has participated in five games and recorded one assist.
Team Lines During Practice
The Canadiens employed the following lines:
- Caufield – Suzuki – Texier/Laine
- Slafkovsky – Kapanen – Demidov
- Bolduc/Veleno – Evans – Dach
- Anderson/Blais – Danault – Gallagher
- Matheson – Dobson
- Hutson – Guhle
- Xhekaj – Carrier – Struble
Goalies and Other Team Updates
James Reimer is set to start for the Ottawa Senators as they prepare to face the Colorado Avalanche. Reimer joined the Senators after a new signing on January 12 and has a current record of 1-2-1. His save percentage stands at .871, with a 3.32 GAA.
Meanwhile, Linus Ullmark, currently on personal leave, hasn’t played since December 27. He returned to practice on January 16 but has not yet resumed game responsibilities.
Other Players in Focus
The Colorado Avalanche’s Mackenzie Blackwood is expected to start in net against the Senators. Blackwood maintains a record of 14-3-1 this season, with a save percentage of .911.
Elvis Merzlikins is anticipated as the starting goaltender for the Columbus Blue Jackets against the Philadelphia Flyers. Merzlikins holds an 8-8-1 record and has recently improved with two wins in his last three games.
Injury Updates Across the League
In other news, both Adam Fox and Conor Sheary of the New York Rangers participated in an optional skate, wearing non-contact jerseys. Fox has missed the last nine games due to an undisclosed injury, while Sheary has been out since New Year’s Eve due to a lower-body issue.
On the Tampa Bay Lightning front, defenceman Victor Hedman skated in a non-contact jersey following elbow surgery in December and is expected to return shortly.
These updates reflect the fluid nature of player readiness and performance as NHL teams navigate through the season.
