Patrik Laine
ON-ICE VALUE
Top-Six Forward
STRENGTHS
Shot: Laine is unquestionably one of the deadliest shooters in the NHL. Though his release isn’t quick as it could be, when he has space to pull the trigger, he can unload heavy and accurate bombs. Perhaps best known for his one-timer from the left circle, Laine is actually even more proficient with his wrister. He’s among the handful of forwards who can regularly score from distance.
Offensive Instincts: Due to that blistering shot, Laine’s other dimensions are often overlooked. He’s a crafty stick-handler and clever passer who possesses a good feel for what to do in most attacking situations. He’s quietly become a solid playmaker.
Size: Many forget just how big Laine is because he doesn’t throw his weight around. Nevertheless, that 6’5”, 210-pound frame makes it awfully tough for defenders to reach the puck and swipe it away. He just takes up a ton of room out there, and once he gains a head of steam in the neutral zone, he can very difficult to contain.
WEAKNESSES
Attitude: The Finnish sniper has now mentally checked out on two NHL teams. When he doesn’t get the bounces, the looks, the minutes or the linemates he wants, he sulks instead of trying to make his own luck. Laine has demonstrated little desire to break out of slumps. He just hopes to outwait them.
Details: Even when he’s engaged on the ice, he doesn’t offer much outside of pure offense. He consistently loses battles he has no business losing given his size and shows far too much of the puck when protecting it should be straightforward. Worst of all, he’s an absolute sieve on defense. Throughout his career, any five-man unit he’s found himself on has bled scoring chances at a staggering rate.
Acceleration: When he can wind up and find his stride, Laine is actually a swift skater. The problem is how long it takes for him to reach that final gear. Since hockey often requires quick stops and starts, he can look a bit gangly and clumsy rather than crisp and fluid.
