Laine doesn't blame Pare for injury: 'Unfortunate collision'

Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine isn't holding a grudge against Toronto Maple Leafs farmhand Cedric Pare after Saturday's knee-on-knee collision that knocked the Habs sniper out for two-to-three months.

"I don't think anybody's trying to hurt anybody," Laine said, according to Sportsnet. "Hockey's a fast game and kind of put myself in that situation a little bit trying to make a stop. It's just an unfortunate collision, and he texted me afterwards, which I give him respect for that."

The Maple Leafs were forced to disable Pare's social media accounts due to abuse and threats he received after the incident, according to TSN's Darren Dreger.

Laine was diagnosed with a knee sprain but opted against surgery after consulting with Montreal's medical team. He's in good spirits despite being on the shelf for the start of his Canadiens tenure.

"It's fun to be around, obviously much rather be on the ice," he said. "Kind of dodged a bullet with the knee; it could've been much worse. I mean, I'm not still happy with the injury, but it is what is and just trying to stay positive. We'll be back."

The Canadiens acquired Laine and a second-round pick from the Columbus Blue Jackets in August for Jordan Harris. Montreal is Laine's third team since being drafted second overall in 2016.