Canadiens' announcement explains Patrik Laine's absence from practice

As was reported earlier, forward Patrik Laine was absent from the Montreal Canadiens' Thursday morning skate.

He wasn't the only one, as no fewer than four players were missing from the Canadiens' practice. The practice took place at the Bell Centre, as it is game day in Montreal, with the San Jose Sharks in town.

In short, the five absent players were Josh Anderson, Kirby Dach (injured), Patrik Laine, David Savard and Brendan Gallagher.

We know that Anderson is dealing with some discomfort, though he will ultimately play Thursday night.

We know that Kirby Dach is injured, David Savard is dealing with discomfort (he has missed several practices recently) and Brendan Gallagher had an obligation. But in the case of Patrik Laine, there was no clear reason for his absence.

This raised some questions.

Canadiens announce that Thursday's practice was optional

That explains it.

"MONTREAL - The Canadiens held an optional morning skate ahead of their matchup against the San Jose Sharks on Thursday."

Laine appears to be the only player who simply chose not to take the ice, without an apparent reason.