I feel like Patrik Laine has been doing much better since he joined the Canadiens. On the ice, he seems happier, and I believe he's doing well off the ice too.
The last few years haven't been easy for him.
He recently spoke about the difficult moments he's experienced, such as the loss of his father.
Sometimes, anxiety can rise for anyone, and it's not easy to fight.
"I'm someone who thinks too much. I do it all day long. I create all kinds of scenarios in my head."Patrik Laine
When he left the Blue Jackets to join the player assistance program, he didn't want to do anything anymore, not even play video games.
A sad statement from Patrik Laine, but one that mainly shows how far he's come
It says a lot about the state he was in.
It's tough. Even if the body feels good at times, confidence isn't always there. I have to contribute in other ways if my offensive game isn't there.- Patrik Laine
Today, Laine has made many changes. He started therapy, sold his luxury cars, and focused his energy on simpler things.
With his fiancée Jordan Leigh and their dog Boogie, he now wants to have a positive impact. He even started a foundation, From Us to You, to help those dealing with mental health issues.
On the ice, I think he's also rediscovered his joy of playing. It was visible on the rink as well.
By the way, before the Canadiens' game against the Winnipeg Jets, Laine had dinner with his good friend, Nikolaj Ehlers.
They didn't talk too much about the game, but did Laine try to convince him to come to Montreal this summer?
I think it's not impossible.
Ehlers, who will turn 29 in February, will be a free agent on July 1st, and his name often comes up in Canadiens rumors.
We know that Kent Hughes inquired about him last summer, so if he decides to test the market, it could be an interesting option.
One thing is for sure, seeing Laine find peace is a great story. Now, we'll have to see if his buddy Ehlers could join him in Montreal.
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