In June, Finland’s Patrik Laine will likely be one of the top two selections at the 2016 NHL Draft. On Saturday, the 18-year-old forward helped lead Finland to a 3-1 victory over both Russia and his hockey idol growing up, Alex Ovechkin. Finland will play in the gold medal game tomorrow while the Russians will go for Bronze.
After the game, the top-ranked European-born prospect geeked out about playing against his hockey hero.
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“I won’t wash this jersey ever because [Ovechkin] hit me,” Laine said smiling big. “It was nice to play against him too and it’s nice to know that top of the world players aren’t so far.”
Laine was crushed by Ovechkin in the neutral zone late in the first period.
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Long after absorbing the hit, Laine set up Finland’s go-ahead goal with a cross-crease pass to Jussi Jokinen.
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Laine leads the tournament in goals (7) and shots (33). Already drawing comparisons to Ovechkin and Corey Perry, Laine will likely be a special player in the NHL for a long time.
“It felt pretty amazing,” Laine said. “Just amazing to play against those guys and be able to win. It’s amazing to play out there.”
Photo: Andre Ringuette/HHOF-IIHF Images
