The Montreal Canadiens are entering the new NHL season shrouded in uncertainty and speculation, with one of the biggest storylines centering around Patrik Laine. After a summer of hard work and determination, Laine’s role on the team has become the subject of intense debate among fans, analysts, and insiders alike.

Once thought to be a lock for a top-six role alongside promising young talent Ivan Demidov, Laine now finds himself at the heart of swirling rumors about his place in the lineup.

Recent reports have thrown a curveball into expectations, suggesting that the Canadiens may have different plans for their high-profile winger than originally anticipated.

As training camp approaches, all eyes are on the coaching staff’s decisions and how they will shape the team’s offensive structure. The possibility of Laine starting the season lower in the lineup has sparked passionate reactions and raised questions about what the future holds for the talented forward.

With competition heating up and roster spots far from guaranteed, the coming weeks promise drama, surprises, and plenty of intrigue. For Laine, the challenge is clear: prove himself once again and reclaim a prominent role on a Canadiens squad hungry for success.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

For the past few weeks, Patrik Laine has been working hard alongside young Ivan Demidov, particularly to build solid chemistry.

We believed they would likely be playing together on the Canadiens’ second line, but bad news for Laine – based on what Frank Seravalli had to say, even though trade talks are no longer really active.

The Canadiens reportedly don’t necessarily intend to start the season with Laine on the second line.

That spot would instead go to Zachary Bolduc – although that could obviously change during training camp.

Rumor Suggests Patrik Laine Will Start the Season on the Third Line

That’s also what’s currently reflected on the official NHL website and on Daily Faceoff.

It would definitely be a disappointment for Laine, especially since that same site also projects him to be moved down to the second power-play unit..

That said, given how hard Laine is working right now, it’s clear all of this could change quickly.

Laine, 27, recorded 33 points in 52 games last season with the Canadiens, including 20 goals.

Personally, I also think it makes sense to give Zachary Bolduc a shot on the second line, but Laine should absolutely be given a chance to earn that spot at camp.

As for the power play, big decisions will need to be made involving Laine, Ivan Demidov, Cole Caufield, Noah Dobson, and others.