Overview
- Laine told reporters at the Canadiens’ end‑of‑season media availability that he “probably could have played pretty soon after New Year’s,” a comment first reported during the team’s postgame press sessions on Monday.
- He underwent core‑muscle surgery in October and appeared in only five games this season before returning to regular team practice in mid‑January while remaining on injured reserve.
- Laine said he eventually received a medical green light from Canadiens staff but did not see any playoff game action as Montreal advanced to the Eastern Conference Final.
- TSN insider Pierre LeBrun noted that staying on injured reserve can let a soon‑to‑be unrestricted free agent sign deals with lower base salaries and higher performance bonuses, a structure that may appeal to cap‑tight teams.
- The admission leaves Laine facing tradeoffs in free agency: he preserved eligibility for bonus‑heavy offers but missed a chance to showcase his recovery in games, which likely pushes him toward short, low‑risk contracts next season.