Montreal Canadiens winger Patrik Laine sidelined ahead of NHL game against Toronto Maple Leafs due to injury

The Montreal Canadiens are again set to go to the field to contest against the Toronto Maple Leafs without a winger- Patrik Laine. The 27-year-old forward is not expected to play since October 16, 2025, when he had a successful core muscle injury repair surgery.

First, Laine had been prescribed three to four months of recovery. The surgery was successful, but the Canadiens have been slow in his rehabilitation. The team has put long-term health above other considerations, but still guaranteed the winger attains full conditioning to be back in competitive action.



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Recent update on Montreal Canadiens winger Patrik Laine's playing status and injury

According to recent estimations, Patrik Laine has shown some positive developments in his recovery. By mid-February 2026, the forward of the Canadiens was back on the ice and was spotted taking part in the Montreal Canadiens team practices. But even after undergoing an on-ice workout, he has yet to be declared fit to participate in a full NHL game.

The coach of the Canadiens is still following up on Laine regarding his progress, as the team is still managing his workload. It may take even more time to build the strength and game fitness once the surgery on the core muscles is over, and that is why the timeline of his comeback was cautious.

The offensive depth at Montreal has been felt by the absence of Laine. The Finnish winger is known to be a goal scorer. As he has always been a goal scorer in the history of the league, and once healthy, he is always one of the most dangerous goal scorers in the league, in his absence, the Canadiens have had to depend on other forwards to continue with their offensive production.

At this moment, the organization did not specify the specific day when Laine will return. It is hoped that when the time comes, he can engage in full practices without restrictions, and the Canadiens will consider the option of placing him on the roster of an upcoming NHL game. Patrik Laine continues recovery, with Canadiens cautiously waiting for full fitness before NHL return.