IS: An astonishing claim from Roope Hintzi about Patrik Laine – “We know he can do it”

Dallas Stars forward Roope Hintz is closely following the difficult situation of his good friend Patrik Laine. Laine, who does not have an NHL contract, is still waiting for an opportunity to return to the ice.

Hintz tells Ilta-Sanomat in an interview that he is in contact with Laine daily. The Finnish center is puzzled that the goal scorer, who has suffered from injuries, has not received a contract or even an opportunity to showcase his skills to NHL teams.

– I really feel for him. His last season was ruined by injury, and he still can’t play, Hintz says.

– I don’t understand why he can’t even get a tryout anywhere.

Laine played only five games for the Montreal Canadiens last season. The 28-year-old forward is currently keeping in shape in Florida and waiting for his NHL career to continue.

Hintz doesn’t know if his friend is currently in contract negotiations. Their daily conversations tend to revolve around other matters.

– I don’t want to keep asking what the situation is. He probably gets enough inquiries as it is, Hintz says.

However, Hintz’s faith in Laine’s abilities has not wavered. The Dallas star center even makes a bold prediction about the scoring potential Laine could still achieve in the NHL.

– There aren’t many goal scorers like him. We know he can score 40 or 50 goals, Hintz states.

Laine’s name would also have been welcome in Hintz’s Dallas locker room. The Stars have struggled with scoring issues at the start of the season but ended up acquiring experienced forward David Perron, 38.

– Then we would have seven of us Finns! That would probably be some kind of record. But it’s not in my hands, Hintz reflects.

Laine’s recent years have been overshadowed by numerous injuries. Hintz hopes above all that his friend finds a new team and can play again without constant health issues.

– I hope he gets to play somewhere and stays healthy. He has had so many injuries in recent years.