When discussing Montreal’s fan favorites, names like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Juraj Slafkovsky frequently arise. However, Michael Pezzetta is also a player adored by many Montreal fans.
The Canadiens’ strongman appeared on the Cam & Strick Podcast on Tuesday, where he discussed various aspects of his career in Montreal.
Here is the full episode of the podcast.
What stood out in this interview wasn’t necessarily Pezzetta, but Cole Caufield. The Canadiens’ No. 55 mentioned that he has never seen anyone “put that much money on the board” like Caufield.
For those unfamiliar, “putting money on the board” in hockey refers to when a player writes a specific amount of money next to their name before an important game. If their team wins, the player donates that amount to the team fund, which is used for organizing activities or parties.
Typically, players do this for significant occasions such as their first NHL game, a match against their former team, or their hometown team. Others may do so after signing a major contract or reaching a significant milestone in their career.
The amusing part is that Caufield wouldn’t have every reason to “put that much money on the board.” He has just begun his career, has never played for another NHL team, and there isn’t really a team in the Wisconsin area, where he was born.
The young player’s contract probably allows for some extravagance. Earning $62.8 million over eight years certainly enables some spending.
Pezzetta also confirmed that Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield are two players who are not afraid to treat their teammates during team outings.
But let’s return to the main subject of this podcast.
Pezzetta emphasized what he appreciates most about Montreal. According to him, the atmosphere at the Bell Centre and the dedication of the fans are unparalleled in the NHL.
He cited the example of how Canadiens fans fill the Bell Centre and passionately support the team, even during a low-profile game between the Habs and the Coyotes.
There are numerous ways to win over the crowd in the vibrant city of Montreal. Pezzetta has discovered a few methods that could help him become a fan favorite, such as his physical style of play and his exuberant shootout celebration against the Sabres in March 2023.
Pezzetta with an ode to Tiger Williams. Love it. pic.twitter.com/rbaTUMQvlR
— Jason Gregor (@JasonGregor) March 28, 2023
What could further enhance his standing is the quality of his French! Pezzetta didn’t showcase his French skills on the Cam & Strick Podcast, but he revealed that he can understand when people speak Molière’s language.
The only issue is that he doesn’t yet feel comfortable enough to respond to questions in French. Perhaps one day he will! In any case, a simple “thank you, Montreal” always excites the fans.
He also mentioned that he “had” a girlfriend. We knew he was in a relationship with a Quebec woman, but if his remarks indicate that he is now single, learning French might help him find a new partner in Quebec.
Cam Janssen and Andy Strickland also asked Pezzetta if Martin St-Louis still possesses the same talent he had during his playing days. The Canadiens forward affirmed this, but what impresses him even more is his head coach’s understanding of the game.
During practice, St. Louis can articulate how getting the puck into the corner is an art form. Pezzetta stated that St. Louis teaches his players how to protect the puck while considering each player’s position on the ice during puck recovery situations.
Pezzetta appears genuinely fond of Montreal. Though he may not be part of the team after the 2024-25 season when his contract concludes, he is likely to keep bringing smiles to CH fans until then.
A lot of
– Cody Fajardo will be able to enjoy some rest.
The benefits could be visible in the longer term.
— TVA Sports (@TVASports) July 23, 2024
– A bad memory for the Rangers.
Another exchange in which a Quebecer appears very ill
— TVA Sports (@TVASports) July 23, 2024
– Another “last lap.”
Facing Osias in September, Pascal promises to give his all for this “last lap”
— RDS (@RDSca) July 23, 2024
– He will be an excellent asset for France.
“It’s still a dream” – Victor Wembanyama
— RDS (@RDSca) July 23, 2024
When you think of Montreal’s fan favorites, names like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Juraj Slafkovsky often come to mind. However, there’s another player who has captured the hearts of many Montreal fans: Michael Pezzetta. Known as the Canadiens’ strongman, Pezzetta recently appeared on the Cam & Strick Podcast, where he shared some insights about his career in Montreal.
Pezzetta’s Insightful Podcast Appearance
During his interview, while Pezzetta discussed various topics, it was the revelation about his teammate Cole Caufield that caught the most attention. The Canadiens’ No. 55 expressed that he has never seen anyone “put that much money on the board” quite like Caufield.
Understanding the “Money on the Board” Tradition
For those unfamiliar, “putting money on the board” in hockey refers to a tradition where players write a specific amount of money next to their name before an important game. If their team wins, the player donates that money to the team’s fund, which is used for activities or celebrations.
- Common Occasions: Players usually contribute money for milestones such as their first NHL game, matchups against former or hometown teams, and significant contract signings.
- Young Stars: Caufield, having just started his NHL career with the Canadiens, may not seem like a typical candidate, yet his willingness to contribute indicates a strong sense of camaraderie within the team.
Financial Flexibility and Team Bonding
His lucrative contract—worth $62.8 million over eight years—certainly allows him to be generous. Pezzetta also highlighted that Caufield and Nick Suzuki enjoy treating teammates during team outings, strengthening their bond both on and off the ice.
The Unique Atmosphere of Montreal
As Pezzetta reminisces about his experiences in Montreal, he can’t help but rave about the electrifying atmosphere at the Bell Centre. According to him, the dedication of Canadiens fans is unmatched across the NHL. Even during less significant games, such as a low-ranked matchup against the Coyotes, fans consistently fill the Bell Centre and cheer passionately for their team.
Building Rapport with Fans
In a city as vibrant as Montreal, players have various ways to endear themselves to fans. Pezzetta has embraced a physical style of play and celebrated wildly after scoring in a shootout against the Sabres back in March 2023, engaging fans and leaving a lasting impression.
Pezzetta with an ode to Tiger Williams. Love it. pic.twitter.com/rbaTUMQvlR
— Jason Gregor (@JasonGregor) March 28, 2023
Language, Culture, and Connection
To further connect with the Montreal community, Pezzetta’s ability to understand French is a significant advantage, even if his speaking skills aren’t fully developed yet. Acknowledging the local culture, even a simple “thank you, Montreal” resonates deeply with fans and fosters a special bond.
A Glimpse into His Personal Life
In his appearance, Pezzetta hinted at changes in his personal life, suggesting he “had” a girlfriend and mentioning a past relationship with a Quebec woman. As he navigates the dating scene, mastering French could very well help him connect with potential new partners within the province.
Pezzetta’s Respect for Coaching
The podcast also shed light on Pezzetta’s admiration for head coach Martin St-Louis. Although Pezzetta believes St-Louis retains his incredible skillset, it’s the coach’s vision of the game that has been most impressive to him.
St. Louis’s Training Approach
Pezzetta praised St. Louis’s ability to teach nuances, such as the art of puck protection during practice. He even noted St. Louis’s insight into player positioning during puck recovery situations, which speaks volumes about the development players can experience under his guidance.
Future in Montreal
While Pezzetta’s contract is set to expire after the 2024-25 season, his affection for Montreal and its fans seems unwavering. His contribution to the team, both on the ice and in the community, ensures that he’ll likely remain a cherished figure in the hearts of Canadiens supporters.
Montreal Canadiens Fan Favorites
| Player Name | Position | Contract Value | Key Attribute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cole Caufield | Right Wing | $62.8 million (8 years) | Goal Scoring |
| Nick Suzuki | Center | $63 million (8 years) | Leadership |
| Juraj Slafkovsky | Left Wing | $34 million (4 years) | Physical Play |
| Michael Pezzetta | Forward | $1.5 million (2 years) | Physical Presence |
Additional Highlights Around the League
- Cody Fajardo: Recently took some time off to recharge.
- Rangers Update: Fans are left with bad memories of recent exchanges.
- Pascal’s Last Lap: Vows to give his all for this final stretch in September.
- Victor Wembanyama: Expressed that playing for France remains a dream come true.
