The idea was that Laine would play in the WC, but an injury put an end to it.
“Unfortunately, Patrik Laine is still not in full playing condition and therefore cannot participate in the World Cup,” general manager Jere Lehtinen tells it website of the Finnish Ice Hockey Association.
Five NHL players are part of Finland’s squad: Olli Määttä, Joel Armia, Kaapo Kakko, Kasperi Kapanen and Mikko Rantanen.
The WC, which is decided in Finland and Latvia, starts on Friday.