Montreal Canadiens

Don’t Look Now, But Canadiens Newcomer Is Setting NHL Records

First-year Montréal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine has burst on the scene. How has his eight straight power-play goals impacted the team?

by
Old Prof
December 22, 2024

Eight straight power-play goals is a rare feat in NHL history. However, that’s exactly what Patrik Laine has accomplished. He’s scored the Canadiens’ past eight power-play goals, an accomplishment that stands alone in modern hockey. He’s the first NHL player since the league began keeping detailed records in 1933-34 to score eight consecutive power-play goals for his team.

To put this into perspective, only three players have ever come close to this level of dominance on the man advantage. Specifically, Phil Esposito scored seven consecutive power-play goals for the Boston Bruins in the 1970-71 season. Bronco Horvath achieved the same feat for the Bruins in 1959-60. Finally, Nels Stewart managed seven straight for the New York Americans in 1936-37. But it’s been over 50 years since Esposito did the trick.

No one has done what Laine has done. Remarkably, the Canadiens newcomer has surpassed these NHL legends—it’s a testament to his ability to shine in clutch moments.

Laine Has Joined an Exclusive Club of Power-Play Scorers

Putting Laine’s Records Into Perspective

Laine’s achievements don’t stop there. He’s also among only five players in NHL history to score his first eight goals with a new franchise exclusively on the power play. Here’s the elite company he joins. First, Risto Siltanen (then of the Quebec Nordiques, scored 10 power-play goals). Second, Marek Zidlicky (Minnesota Wild, 10). Third, Dwight Bialowas (Minnesota North Stars, eight goals); and, fourth, Victor Olofsson (Buffalo Sabres, also eight goals.)

Patrik Laine Canadiens goals — Patrik Laine has eight power-play goals for the Canadiens

This list underscores just how rare it is for a player to make such an immediate impact on special teams.

Why Laine’s Accomplishment Matters to the Canadiens

Laine’s streak isn’t just a fun statistical anomaly. It’s also been a game-changer for the Canadiens. His ability to capitalize on power-play chances has turned what has traditionally been a weak spot for Montreal into a weapon. It also highlights Laine’s adaptability and skill as he adjusts to a new team and system while still producing at an elite level.

Beyond the Canadiens, Laine reminds us just how rare it is to see such dominance in a specific aspect of the game. NHL records have stood for decades because they reflect the extraordinary in a league where excellence is the norm.

The Bottom Line: Laine’s Streak Is One for the Ages

Bursting on the Montreal scene, Laine has managed to carve out a place in NHL history with his power-play heroics. Scoring eight straight power-play goals for a team is unprecedented, and his accomplishment cements his status as one of the league’s most lethal scorers.

Laine isn’t just an explosive player; his play gives Canadiens fans plenty of reasons to believe in what this team can achieve. The question is whether Laine can continue this historic pace and add to his remarkable legacy. For now, one thing is sure: La Belle Province is witnessing something truly special.