Canadiens’ Laine misses practice, St. Louis mum on Game 3 lineup changes
By Canadian Press on April 25, 2025.
MONTREAL — Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis says he’ll make his Game 3 lineup decisions following warm-up Friday night after winger Patrik Laine missed the team’s morning skate.
The Canadiens said Laine, the only player absent, did not participate because of a maintenance day.
Montreal trails the Washington Capitals 2-0 in their first-round playoff series after two losses on the road.
St. Louis benched Laine for the entire third period of Wednesday’s 3-1 loss to the Capitals in Game 2 after a difficult, turnover-filled first 40 minutes for the Finnish forward.
The 27-year-old Laine is Montreal’s highest-paid player with a US$8.7-million salary through next season.
Known for his dangerous shot, the power-play specialist hasn’t scored in his last seven games.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 25, 2025.
The Canadian Press
11-10
There is something more going on with Laine than we are being told. Some mental issues may be bothering him again. I would be surprised to see him back on the ice for the next few games, if not longer.