Patrik Laine Undergoes Core Muscle Surgery, Expected to Miss Months and Potentially 2026 Olympics

Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine is facing a significant recovery period after undergoing core muscle surgery. The procedure is expected to sideline him for three to four months, placing his return to the ice between late January and late February. This lengthy recovery time also raises concerns about his availability for the 2026 Winter Olympics, which he could potentially miss. The team will be without the key player for a substantial portion of the season as he rehabilitates.