In a press conference before the Montreal media, the new Canadiens forward, Patrik Laine, answered numerous questions.

Montreal journalists aren’t exactly known for shying away from asking tough questions, and indeed, Laine was repeatedly questioned about the real reasons for his entry into the NHL, NHLPA’s players assistance program.

He also got off to a flying start:

That said, he was truly transparent and engaging during his media session.

Patrik Laine opens up before Montreal journalists

He ended up revealing more.

«One thing I’ve learned is that when you’re no longer having fun doing what you do (in my case, playing hockey), you probably won’t be able to perform, and that’s kind of where I was.

I hadn’t been able to enjoy myself as much for a while, but now, I’m happier than ever. […] I’ve worked a lot on myself to get back to this point where I’m genuinely excited to start playing again, with a new team and new teammates.

I’ve learned a lot of things, and I’m more ready than ever to put them into practice.»

– Patrik Laine

He also mentioned that he sometimes struggled to react to certain situations but is now much better equipped to handle more emotional challenges.

It’s clear that he’s worked hard on his mental health, which also explains the recent support program he launched in collaboration with his fiancée.

Laine wasn’t happy; he had lost his love for hockey, but now he’s found it again!

Watch his full press conference here:

There’s been a lot of talk about Patrik Laine’s recent underperformance, but what’s frightening is that he still managed to rack up 117 points in his last 129 NHL games!