Kent Hughes Sends Clear Message to Patrik Laine Two Weeks Before Training Camp
Kent Hughes did not beat around the bush when he spoke with Patrik Laine during the offseason, sending him a clear message ahead of his final contract year.
The Montreal Canadiens general manager recently took the time to speak with journalist Eric Engels of Sportsnet, on the sidelines of the general managers' meeting in Detroit.
At the heart of the discussion was Patrik Laine, a player who naturally draws attention due to his talent, but also because of his inconsistent performances during the last campaign.
Last summer, Hughes took a bold step by acquiring the entirety of the Finn's contract, a gesture of confidence that showed his belief Laine could once again become a major offensive piece.
While Laine displayed flashes of brilliance, his consistency at five-on-five left much to be desired, limiting his overall impact on the game. The GM therefore wants to see his forward take another step forward as soon as the upcoming season.
The message delivered by Hughes is not so much a threat as it is a call for commitment. Fully aware of Laine's immense potential, he wants to push him to take on more responsibility, improve certain aspects of his game, and ultimately earn increased ice time.
Kent Hughes Sends a Clear Message to Forward Patrik Laine Ahead of Training Camp
To achieve this, the executive and his player agreed to target specific areas to work on during the offseason, an approach designed to turn raw talent into more consistent output.
"Patrik is an incredibly talented and skilled hockey player. We've all seen it. In the discussions I had with him during the end-of-season meetings, I told him: 'Let's think about the aspects of your game you need to improve in order to play more consistently.'
I think in Patrik's case, the answers are obvious. Don't wait until October (to make the necessary adjustments), when you're in the middle of a game and have to rely on instinct. Start now, during summer training, in development. Every time you step on the ice, focus on that."
- Kent Hughes
I think in Patrik's case, the answers are obvious. Don't wait until October (to make the necessary adjustments), when you're in the middle of a game and have to rely on instinct. Start now, during summer training, in development. Every time you step on the ice, focus on that."
- Kent Hughes
However, his full adaptation to the Canadiens' system and his ability to maintain an impact over 82 games still remain challenges. Hughes, who has already proven his patience and ability to support his players in their development, seems convinced that his gamble can still pay off.
On the eve of the new season, all eyes will be on Laine. Montreal is not only expecting his spectacular goals: there is now hope he can establish himself as a complete player, capable of making a difference night after night. For Kent Hughes, the equation is simple: if Laine manages to elevate his game, the entire team will benefit.
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SEPTEMBRE 3 | 653 ANSWERS Kent Hughes Sends Clear Message to Patrik Laine Two Weeks Before Training Camp Can Patrik Laine Score Close to 40 Goals This Season? | ||
| Yes | 474 | 72.6 % |
| No | 179 | 27.4 % |
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