Patrik Laine responds to demotion, plans approach if it continues

Montreal Canadiens right wing Patrik Laine. David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Patrik Laine responds to Martin St. Louis' punishment, plans a different approach if it continues

Originally posted on Habs Fanatics | By Elias Adaime | Last updated Feb 5, 2025 4:39 PM ET

Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine was answering journalists' questions for the very first time since the game in Anaheim on Sunday.

During this matchup against the Ducks, Laine was benched in the third period by head coach Martin St. Louis.

This even continued on Monday. As a result, Laine has lost his spot in the Canadiens' top-six forwards.

Patrik Laine responds publicly

His most important response will come on the ice, of course, but he still made a point to mention this:

"It's difficult. Even if my body feels good sometimes, and my confidence isn't quite there, I have to contribute in another way if my offensive game isn't clicking," Laine said.

He seems to be taking responsibility. Perhaps he heard recent comments from a radio host. But there's even more.

Laine then explained that if this continues, he will take a constructive approach by talking to his coaches for advice and looking for other ways to help the team while he works to regain his scoring touch and confidence.

In any case, hopefully for Laine, things turn around, and playing with Jake Evans and Joel Armia could be beneficial for him.

After all, Laine still has 18 points in 24 games, which is far from catastrophic.

Every goal scorer goes through tough stretches.

This article first appeared on Habs Fanatics and was syndicated with permission.

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