Former Winnipeg Jets 2016 second overall pick Patrik Laine returns for the first time as a member of the Montreal Canadiens.
The Jets’ meeting with the Canadiens is the first of two; the second will be played on Jan. 28, a little over a month from now. The Jets head into today’s game clinging to a one-point lead over the Minnesota Wild for the Central Division, but the Jets have played two more games.
The Canadiens are on the other end of the standings, ranking last in the Atlantic Division and 29th in the NHL. The Canadiens have been poor in every facet of the game, ranking 24th in goals scored per game, 31st in goals allowed per game, and hold the worst goal differential of all 32 teams (-29).
Despite many things going wrong for the Canadiens, a few bright spots have remained lit and emerged. Nick Suzuki has continued to provide the franchise with strong centre play, Cole Caufield is among the top 10 in goals scored, Samuel Montembeault made Team Canada’s 4 Nations Face-Off roster, and Laine has scored three goals in his first five games.
All three of Laine’s goals have come on the power play, but the Canadiens have found a way to get him the puck in goal-scoring areas so far, something he needs to have to be successful in the NHL. The 26-year-old has struggled with injuries and mental health issues after leaving the Jets but is hoping he’s found a new home to rejuvenate his career.
With all the expected emotions, the Jets know they need to stay focused and pick up the two points. They’re 4-5-1 in their last ten games and haven’t been playing consistent hockey. They were thoroughly outplayed against the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday, and if it weren’t for Connor Hellebuyck, they wouldn’t have scraped out a point against them.
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