"Incredible human" "This guy has major character": NHL fans left in awe as Patrik Laine makes heartwarming gesture toward Finland U15 team

NHL fans were impressed by Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine’s kind gesture toward the Tappara Finland U15 AAA team, which won the Wayne Gretzky International Tournament and was scheduled to attend the New York Islanders-Maple Leafs game on Tuesday. However, some of the kids couldn’t afford the tickets. Laine, who is from Finland, covered the cost instead.

The story was shared by NHL insider Chris Johnston on X on New Year's Eve:

"Meet the Tappara Finland U15 AAA team, which will attend today's Isles-Leafs game after winning the Wayne Gretzky International. The best part? Patrik Laine covered the cost of tickets for the kids from his hometown who wouldn't otherwise have had the budget to see an NHL game."

Some hockey fans were in awe of Patrik Laine's gesture.

"Laine just doesn’t stop. Guy is an incredible human," a fan said.

"What a stud move by Laine, good for him for getting his life back on track and doing things like this too, this guy has major character," one fan mentioned.

"Pretty awesome👌🏻," a fan chimed in.

Laine’s act showed his support for young players and his desire to help his community. Here are some more reactions from fans on X:

"This is very rare for a Habs player to cover the cost for a Leafs ticket especially they are divisional rivals. Patrik Laine is already becoming a very nice guy who’s been killing it for the Habs this season," a fan reacted.

"Great to see pro athletes supporting the kids. Elvis and Patrick should be proud." Another fan reacted.

"I’m sure CBJ fans will find a way to hate Laine for this." A fan joked referencing Laine's recent statement.

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Patrik Laine's comments about Columbus Blue Jackets

Laine, who joined the Montreal Canadiens in August, has scored eight power-play goals in twelve games after returning from an injury post-collision with Toronto's Cedric Pare in his second preseason game in September.

On Dec. 23, the day of Montreal's matchup against Columbus, he explained why he asked for a trade from the Blue Jackets:

"They’re a little too satisfied and too comfortable where they’re at. It wasn’t really a fit for me anymore."

Laine's comments caused tension, especially when the Canadiens faced the Blue Jackets, who won 5-4.