The Montreal Canadiens confirmed that forward Patrik Laine underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury, a procedure that will keep him sidelined for an estimated three to four months. The operation, performed by Dr. Mark Zoland at Lennox Hill Hospital in New York, comes as a major setback early in the 2025–26 NHL season.
Laine had initially been listed as day-to-day with a lower-body injury, prompting speculation about a knee problem. Canadiens GM Kent Hughes revealed the situation was “something completely new,” signaling that the injury was more severe than originally expected.
“Forward Patrik Laine underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury. The procedure was performed by Dr. Mark Zoland at Lennox Hill Hospital in New York. Laine’s recovery period is estimated to be three to four months,” the Canadiens shared on X.
This official statement confirms Laine will miss a significant portion of the season, leaving a noticeable hole in the Canadiens’ top-six forward group. The team is likely to rely on younger players and depth forwards to maintain offensive production during his absence.
Implications for Canadiens
Laine’s $8.7M AAV contract is set to expire at the end of the season, adding pressure for both his recovery and future negotiations. The Canadiens will need to adjust their strategy and give more ice time to secondary scorers while monitoring Laine’s rehabilitation closely.
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