Photo Credit: Colby Spence
The rookie keeps adding to his already remarkable season as the NHL declared him rookie of the month for February. He had eight goals and seven assists in 11 games.
After practice today he was asked his thoughts:
Laine on winning the award.
NHL Release:
Winnipeg Jets right wing Patrik Laine, who recorded 8-7-15 in 11 games, has been named the NHL’s Rookie of the Month for February.
Laine edged Toronto Maple Leafs teammates Auston Matthews (8-8-16 in 14 GP) and William Nylander (7-6-13 in 14 GP) as well as Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Matt Murray (5-2-2, 1.97 GAA, .936 SV%, 1 SO) for the honor.
Laine, who tied for the rookie lead in goals, collected at least one point in eight of his 11 appearances, highlighted by a six-game streak to close the month (8-4-12). He also registered his third career hat trick (including the GWG) Feb. 14 vs. DAL, becoming the first player in NHL history to post three hat tricks prior to his 19th birthday as well as the first rookie to notch three hat tricks in one season since 1992-93.
Laine, the second overall selection in the 2016 NHL Draft, shares the rookie lead and is tied for second place in the entire NHL with 31 goals in 56 games this season. The 18-year-old Tampere, Finland, native also ranks in the top five among rookies in points (1st; 56), shooting percentage (1st; 20.0%), power-play goals (t-1st; 8), game-winning goals (2nd; 5), shots on goal (3rd; 155) and power-play points (5th; 12).
Laine joins Maple Leafs teammates Nylander (October), Matthews (December) and Mitchell Marner (January), as well as Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski (November), as Rookie of the Month winners this season.
