Patrik Laine hasn't suited up for the Montreal Canadiens since Oct. 16, when he sustained an abdominal injury that required surgery. It was the worst-case scenario for Laine, who was coming off a solid first season in Montreal.
Laine came into 2025-26 with heightened expectations, with his versatility allowing him to move up and down the lineup at will, a distinguishing factor for a playoff-caliber Canadiens team. Unfortunately, Laine was one of many Habs players bitten by the injury bug, and fans have been awaiting an update for his eventual return ever since.
While Laine has been skating lately, general manager Kent Hughes did not give an update fans wanted.