Patrik Laine makes his feelings known on making Canadiens debut after long injury absence

For the first time this season, the Montreal Canadiens will welcome Finnish forward Patrik Laine into their lineup on Tuesday. Acquired from the Columbus Blue Jackets in the offseason, Laine had been sidelined by an injury sustained during the exhibition schedule.

But despite missing the first several weeks of the season, he's ready to return against the New York Islanders at Bell Centre in downtown Montreal, which many NHL players regard as one of the best atmospheres to play in.

Laine agrees, saying there's something wrong if a player isn't excited to play in front of the home fans in Montreal.

“If somebody plays here and doesn’t get fired up, I think there’s something wrong with them," Laine said (via Sportsnet)."So, I don’t think that should be an issue. I think the crowd will be buzzing., as always, and hopefully, as we play, and with the way that we play tonight, we’re going to excite ‘em even more.”

The Canadiens and Islanders will drop the puck starting at 7 p.m. ET.

Patrik Laine is coming off a stay in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program

Laine hasn't played since December of last season when he announced that he was seeking treatment from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program to focus on his mental health and well-being.

Shortly after the announcement was made, Laine released the following statement explaining the decision:

"I wanted to take a moment to address my need to step away from the game for a while," Laine said. "After careful consideration and discussions with my support network and the team, I have recognized the importance of prioritizing my mental health and well-being. ... Thank you for respecting my privacy during this time and for your continued support."

Laine was selected by the Winnipeg Jets with the second overall pick in the 2016 NHL draft.

In 480 games, Laine has recorded 204 goals and 184 assists.