Fresh updates on the health status of Patrik Laine and David Reinbacher
During Saturday night's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Canadiens lost two players, as David Reinbacher and Patrik Laine left early in the match.
Both players appeared to be in distress and struggled to leave for the dressing room, unable to put weight on their left leg.
For David Reinbacher, the injury occurred right at the opening face-off, on what looked like a harmless play. A truly mysterious injury for the Austrian.
As for Patrik Laine, the footage circulated widely online, showing him getting kneed by Cédric Paré. It was a dangerous play, but I believe it wasn't intentional.
Later in the game, the organization issued an official statement confirming that neither player would return.
Patrick Friolet from RDS provided details after the game, noting he saw both players leave the Bell Centre, clearly in poor condition.
David Reinbacher also left in the same manner. On crutches, with a hinged brace on his left knee.
They will be evaluated in the coming hours."
- Patrick Friolet, RDS
A meniscus tear or a bone bruise would be the best-case scenarios, with recovery measured in weeks. If it's an anterior cruciate ligament tear, their season would be over.
The repercussions would be catastrophic for both if their seasons were to end prematurely. For David Reinbacher, it would take away a full year of development, while for Patrik Laine, it would be mentally challenging, especially after all he has overcome.
I don't know if the hockey gods can favor the Canadiens for once, but I hope so, and that both players will be back on their feet soon.
The diagnosis should come quickly in both cases. Updates will follow.
