"So big, so strong": Patrik Laine names Victor Hedman and Connor McDavid as toughest opponents

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Aug 29, 2024 19:55 GMT

Patrik Laine, now with the Montreal Canadiens, recently shared his thoughts on his toughest NHL opponents. Speaking on the August 28 episode of Jake's Takes, a podcast hosted by 13-year-old Jake, Laine named Victor Hedman and Connor McDavid as the hardest players to face.

Laine said he dislikes playing against Victor Hedman because of his speed, strength and skill. He called Hedman a "pain" to play against.

[11:00] "Um, yeah, there's, there's been many annoying, annoying players," Laine said. "I feel like it's, I hate playing against Hedman, just because how good he is. Um, he's just so fast, so big, so strong, so good with his stick. Like, he's, he's the pain, pain in the a** to play against."

Hedman, a top defenseman for the Tampa Bay Lightning, recently signed a four-year contract extension, which keeps him with the team until the 2028-29 season.

Laine also mentioned Connor McDavid, the Edmonton Oilers' captain, as another difficult opponent. Laine noted that when McDavid has the puck, there’s little you can do to stop him.

[11:24] "And then obviously playing against, like, McDavid, it's like there's nothing you can do," Laine added. "Like, when he gets to puck in his own zone, like, you can just, you know, pray that he doesn't score. But, yeah, I'll probably just say those two out of the hat."

McDavid is known for his incredible scoring ability, recording 100 assists and 132 points last season. He even achieved 174 points in 99 games, a feat not seen since the mid-90s.

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Columbus Blue Jackets traded Patrik Laine to Montreal Canadiens

Patrik Laine was traded to the Montreal Canadiens from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Laine had asked for a trade after dealing with injuries and time in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. Columbus GM Don Waddell allowed Laine to explore trade options and found a fair deal with Montreal.

Laine, who had nine points in 18 games last season, has two years left on his contract. He was excited after getting acquired by Montreal.

"I want to come in and do whatever it takes to contribute to the team and help the team win, whether it’s me scoring 50 or scoring 20, as long as the team wins. I’m getting to that age, I’m not 19 years old anymore. I just want to win,” Laine said.

Montreal hopes Patrik Laine will help the team both on the ice and by mentoring younger players.