Bold Prediction About Patrik Laine Sets Social Media on Fire and Fans Have Plenty to Say
The addition of Patrik Laine to the Montreal Canadiens' offense continues to fuel debate around the team. And in the most recent episode of The Sick Podcast, host Tony Marinaro raised a bold hypothesis.
According to Marino, there's a possibility that the Finnish forward could score 40 goals next season in the right situation:
A fully healthy Patrik Laine could have a HUGE impact on the GoHabsGo season...
Tony Marinaro: "The guy who was on pace to score 32 last year, in those circumstances, would probably score 40."
- via The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro
Tony Marinaro: "The guy who was on pace to score 32 last year, in those circumstances, would probably score 40."
- via The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro
According to him, the conditions Laine will play in this season could make all the difference.
In Columbus, repeated injuries, coaching changes, and a lack of consistency around him hindered his production.
But in Montreal, surrounded by players like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and now Ivan Demidov, the Finnish winger could benefit from a more stable environment and a clear role in the offensive top six.
Let's not forget that Laine suffered a serious injury during last year's training camp and missed a large portion of the beginning of the season before returning in December.
It remains to be seen whether Martin St. Louis will be able to get the best out of his new sniper. But one thing is certain: if Laine regains confidence and momentum, the Canadiens may have pulled off a true offensive steal.
A Promising Battle for Spots on the Second Line
With a deeper offense than in recent seasons, the Montreal Canadiens could rely on a particularly intriguing second line this year. Several observers envision a line consisting of Patrik Laine, Kirby Dach, and Ivan Demidov.
"Patrik Laine looks very comfortable and shows no signs of weakness.
Once again, he was the first on the ice at practice today - even before the Zamboni came out."
Once again, he was the first on the ice at practice today - even before the Zamboni came out."
Don't forget Zachary Bolduc, who could also earn a spot - or as Martin St. Louis likes to say, "a chair" - on the second offensive unit.
If this combination materializes, it would give the Canadiens two lines capable of producing at five-on-five, which would represent a significant evolution in the Habs' offensive development.
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