3 replacements for Patrik Laine if injured long-term

The Patrik Laine injury on Saturday night against the Toronto Maple Leafs could be the most disappointing moment of the Montreal Canadiens' season. It was a gruesome-looking knee injury, but the severity is still unknown. It came an inopportune time for the Canadiens' newest forward, as he was rediscovering his love for the game and looked like he was on his way to regaining his 40-goal form.

The injury could destroy the Canadiens' hopes of competing this season. It leaves a gaping hole on the second line, much like Kirby Dach's knee injury in last season's second game. It seems like the injury problems will never end for the Canadiens, and the question now is if Montreal is better equipped to deal with an injury to a top-six forward. Let's check out three possible internal replacements if Laine has to miss significant time.

Owen Beck

Owen Beck was part of the re-assignments to the Laval Rocket roster, who starts training camp on Monday. Beck had a good camp with Montreal, but the emergence of Oliver Kapanen and Roy proving he should stay created the opportunity for Beck to get more development in the AHL. It's surprising that the Canadiens sent him down right after the Leafs game, as they could've held on to him while they waited for the results on Laine. However, that decision makes it seem like they're set on Beck starting in Laval, regardless.

Oliver Kapanen

Oliver Kapanen was a good candidate to make the team before Laine's injury, but an extended absence for the fellow Fin will almost certainly get him on the team. Kapanen playing in Laine's spot seems like a long shot, as he looks more like a bottom-six center to begin his career. However, the elevation of other players in the lineup will open a spot for Kapanen without waiting for a Christian Dvorak or Jake Evans trade.