Patrik Laine's career as an NHL star has been a rollercoaster.
The 26-year-old profile has been on and off fiery and scored goals left and right with his razor-sharp shot.
But he has also been completely cold for long periods.
Laine has also opened up about mental health issues that kept him away from ice hockey for a large part of last season.
Successful start
Last summer, he was traded from Columbus to Montreal. After an early injury, he was back in December and made a success.
It became twelve goals in the first 18 matches, and the comeback was hailed.
Then it stopped – and ten goalless matches followed.
It's hard to get it going when you don't get to show much. When you only get ten minutes of ice time, it's tough when you're used to more, says Laine, who also became goalless in Finland's initial big loss, 1–6, against the USA in Four Nations.
Skeptics say the pattern is familiar. A new start with a club change and Laine is fiery, then cools down quickly.
"Will help me"
So which Laine will Tre Kronor face?
He himself is convinced it will be the fiery one.
Getting to play more will help, it's been quite sparse the last few weeks, so it will definitely be more. It will help me, he says.
He often succeeds in the national team.
It's about pride to wear the national team jersey, it's always special. It's something that happens in the head and body, and you start playing better.
The change of environment in the new hometown is also a boost. From the club team to the national team.
It's great to meet the guys on the national team. Not that I don't get along with my club teammates, but it's been so long since we played together, and coming to a familiar environment has been a boost, he says.
Laine made headlines a couple of weeks ago when he went out and said he "hates Sweden".
Now he will try to sink arch-rival.
