"I'm crying tears of joy": Habs fans elated as Patrik Laine's injury update predicts 2-3 months return timeline

Montreal Canadiens star winger Patrik Laine is expected to miss two to three months following a forceful collision last Saturday night, NHL.com confirms.

During the first period of last Saturday night’s Toronto Maple Leafs-Montreal Canadiens matchup, Laine was struck in the left knee by Leafs forward Cedric Pare, leaving the game immediately. Following evaluations, it was determined Laine had suffered a sprained knee.

While the injury is unfortunate, the official diagnosis is not nearly as bad as many thought it might be, seeing fans overjoyed.

Here’s a look at how they reacted on social media.

“I’M CRYING TEARS OF JOYYYYY,” a fan reacted.

“Great news that the injury is not worse. Laine will be a good Christmas present for Habs fans,” another commented.

“No days would be better… but since I was expecting 6-8 months… I’ll take it! He’ll be fully rested for our January playoff push!” this fan posted.

However, not all fans seemed as optimistic. Some expressed their remorse at losing one of their best players for such a long period.

“The cheering here is totally understandable. It's also shockingly depressing that we are cheering that it's only 2-3 months,” a fan opined.

“That's horrible news, I hope he gets better soon,” this fan weighed in.

“Less time than I thought, small victory I suppose,” another fan posted on X.

Overall, Patrik Laine dodged what could have been a potentially career-threatening injury. Now, the hard work begins as Laine looks to get back in playing shape for the rest of the season.

Patrik Laine not the only casualty for the Montreal Canadiens

News of Patrik Laine’s injury was a positive update amid a sea of sad injury news. Habs defenseman David Reinbacher, who was also injured in the same game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, is expected to miss roughly five to six months following knee surgery.

Reinbacher fell awkwardly into the boards moments after the Laine injury. Reinbacher was on the receiving end of a hit from Leafs blueliner Marshall Rifai, then fell backward with his knee in an uncomfortable position.

He skated off the ice but went immediately to the dressing room and did not return. The injury is a tough break for the former first-round pick as the Habs hoped Reinbacher could compete for a roster spot this season.

Given the news, it’s likely Reinbacher will be out for the season. However, he could still return to the ice closer to spring depending on a speedy recovery.