Laine: Reception in home debut 'coolest thing I've ever seen'

Patrik Laine certainly felt the love from the Bell Centre faithful during Tuesday's victory over the New York Islanders.

The Montreal Canadiens sniper made his long-awaited regular-season debut after spraining his knee in an exhibition game. Laine scored a power-play goal and logged two shots, two hits, and a block in Tuesday's contest.

The crowd erupted when Laine's name was announced over the PA system.

Laine was named first star for his efforts, and he spoke about his warm reception afterward.

"That was the most outrageous thing I've ever heard in my entire life. It's like, I don't deserve this, not at all," Laine said jokingly.

"But no, it'll be something, for sure, I'll remember forever. That was the coolest thing I've ever seen. Just getting that welcome, even early on when I came here, from the fans and from the city overall. Obviously, now coming back to play, it was pretty humbling. ... Just grateful and thankful to be here."

Laine spent most of the 2023-24 season in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program to work on his mental health. He feels he's in a good headspace now that he's back on the ice.

"I talked with my therapist about this when I was a little nervous yesterday, and I just decided putting this jersey on today is an achievement after everything," Laine said. "Everything that comes after that is a plus."

The Canadiens acquired Laine from the Columbus Blue Jackets in the offseason. He requested a trade after three tumultuous seasons in Ohio.