Alex Newhook shares optimism about potential linemate Patrik Laine

Alex Newhook gave Stu Cowan some insight into his mindset after the Montreal Canadiens acquired Patrik Laine this offseason. Newhook was on hand for a media preview of the eight-part series debuting on Crave on September 18 but took some time to answer questions from the gathered masses.

Cowan asked Newhook about the possibility of playing on the second line with Kirby Dach and Laine, which he would welcome if that's the path Martin St. Louis chooses. Newhook would be a good complement to the two bigger, deliberate forwards, as he would bring a speed element that would upset defenders.

“I think when you just look at the skill sets of all three of us, with my speed and both big guys — Dacher and Laine. Both guys that can make plays. Both guys that can score, protect the puck. A lot of excitement around it, but I don’t want to speak too much on it right now.”

It's hard to say what direction St. Louis will go, but Newhook is the most logical addition to that line. That is until Ivan Demidov comes to North America in the next few years. Newhook will eventually fall into a third-line role, which he mostly played when he was a member of the Stanley Cup-winning Colorado Avalanche.

Newhook was a valuable piece to the Canadiens last season. He didn't factor into many of the top-five lists we released showcasing the top goalscorers and playmakers, but that was because he played in only 55 games. It was the first time in his NHL career that he hadn't been healthy for the entire season, so there is no reason to believe he won't return to a reliable, 75+ game player this season.

Canadiens fans are full of excitement about the future of the team. Newhook is often an afterthought when forming line combinations and dreams of upcoming Stanley Cup contention. However, it's important not to write off Newhook yet, and he could prove that this season on a line with Dach and Laine.