Montreal Canadiens fans have been buzzing with rumors all summer, but now, a major piece of the puzzle about Patrik Laine’s future has finally been confirmed—and it’s not what anyone expected.

The enigmatic forward, who arrived in Montreal with high expectations and an even higher price tag, has been at the center of endless speculation: Will he stay? Does he even want to be here? Or is he just waiting to move on once his contract ends?

But behind closed doors, the real story has been quietly unfolding, and only now are the details beginning to surface. Exclusive information from trusted insiders reveals a side of Laine that few have seen—a player deeply connected to the city, the team, and the people around him.

There’s more at play than just dollars and stats; there’s a genuine passion for Montreal that could change everything about his future with the Canadiens.

What exactly has inspired this change of heart? Why is Laine reportedly willing to make a sacrifice few stars ever consider? And what does this mean for the team’s future?

The answers might surprise you—and they could reshape the Habs’ plans for years to come. The full story is one you won’t want to miss.

Dec 5, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Patrik Laine (92) looks on against the Nashville Predators during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

What we thought about Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine has just been confirmed.

He really wants to come back to the city, and he really wants to re-sign with the Tricolore.

In a recent article, the excellent Maxime Truman (DansLesCoulisses) revealed some information he obtained over the phone regarding the Montreal Canadiens-some exclusives-and one of them does indeed concern forward Laine.

Does Patrik Laine like Montreal?

Let’s just say Truman could not have been clearer on that.

Patrik Laine LOVES playing for the Montreal Canadiens and he wants to come back with the Habs next year

See the excerpt in question.

“I’m told that Patrik Laine REALLY loves Montreal and the Canadiens organization. I think that if I could have programmed an animation on the word REALLY, I would have done it.” – Max Truman

Laine especially respects the way the Canadiens organization handles the mental health issues of some of its athletes.

Truman continues.

“Laine loves Montreal and he sees himself staying in the city after next season, the last of his lucrative contract.

His girlfriend is happy in Montreal, and the 1001 rumors from the beginning of summer (Laine could sign a contract extension with the Canadiens) all come from one single place: Laine would like to stay in Montreal.”

We love reading that, and we strongly recommend the full article.

He also mentions the possibility of seeing Laine sign at a discount in Montreal, that’s how much he wants to stay.

Of course, let’s recall that his current contract, which pays him $8.7 million per year, ends at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season.

So, this will be a case to follow, but personally, I really believe that it will all depend on his 2025-2026 season.

If he has a big season, why not bring him back next year?

In any case, he really seems motivated and ready to go ever since he’s been spotted live from Brossard!

Having a fully healthy Patrik Laine would be huge for Martin St-Louis’ group.