Laine adds another layer to the Leafs-Habs rivalry

The Montreal Canadiens acquisition of Patrik Laine has brought some Toronto Maple Leafs fans out of the wood work.

Some have joked that the Habs aren't any closer to a playoff spot than before the acquisition. Some have suggested that Laine is a has been and the spotlight in Montreal is much brighter and intense than the one in Columbus and Winnipeg. But Habs fans know what they have got in their top six and that Laine will complement the pieces already in place.

Sure Laine has had his struggles, but with a coach like Martin St. Louis, I think it would be blasphemy to believe he can't get the best out of Laine. It's been more of the same from Kent Hughes over the last three offseasons - after successful drafts and big acquisitions. The core is one year older and the recent acquisitions all have a chip on their shoulders, with something to prove.

Habs vs Leafs pits 2016 picks 1 & 2 head-to-head

The name Auston Matthews sparks plenty of thoughts and conversations in Montreal, whether you love him or hate him, he is one of the National Hockey League's best prospects. From number one overall pick in 2016, to scoring three seasons with 45+ goals and two with 40 or more goals. Matthews has put himself into the Leafs goalscoring record books, and will sport the captaincy for the first time this upcoming season.

Laine on the other hand hasn't eclipsed the 30-goal mark since the 2018-19 season and has struggled to stay healthy. But, when the Leafs are in town or next up on the schedule for an away game, I have a feeling Laine will be ready. The fans will coin the games as one versus two or what have you, but the game within the game will be must-watch television.

We have all seen the games between the Leafs and Blue Jackets, as well as the Jets, and watched Matthews fly up the ice, then Laine fly back down the other way. While the crowd sat in anticipation hoping for something to happen, a big goal or crucial stop - the goalies had to be feeling the most pressure. But one thing above all stood out, the first two picks of the 2016 draft put on a show when they battle one another.

The big difference now is that they will face off as a part of Original Six franchises. Two franchises that will be compared regardless of where they sit in the standings. So, while things seem that the Leafs will be contenders and the Habs just missing out - a Leafs-Habs playoff matchup, while unlikely, would warrant some huge anticipation and excitement.