BROSSARD, Quebec — The Montreal Canadiens may soon welcome back Patrik Laine, who participated in practice for the first time since sustaining a left knee injury. Laine, wearing a noncontact jersey, initially skated solo before integrating into some drills with his teammates during Wednesday’s session. However, he departed the ice after approximately 15 minutes.

“It’s wonderful to have him back with us,” commented defenseman David Savard. “When a teammate is absent from practice for a while, it can feel like an eternity without them. We’ve done our best to include him during team meetings, although connecting can be more challenging when we’re on the road. It’s really encouraging to see him and realize he is nearing his return to the game.”

Laine’s injury occurred due to a collision with Cédric Paré in a preseason matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs on September 28. He made the choice to forgo surgery for his injury. The Canadiens disclosed on October 1 that they anticipated he would be out for a duration of two to three months. After skating alone starting November 6, Laine is now expected to make his official debut with the Canadiens in December.

At 26, the Finnish forward has not appeared in an NHL game since December 14 when he played for the Columbus Blue Jackets. He faced a fractured clavicle and subsequently participated in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, focusing on his mental health during that time.

It is expected that Laine will require some time to regain his competitive form on the ice. “Will it take one game? Two weeks? That remains uncertain; we’ll find out soon,” said Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis.

The Canadiens are currently on a two-game winning streak and are set to face off against the Vegas Golden Knights at the Bell Centre this Saturday.