2024-11-16 18:05:00
Even if the youngsters are progressing, the Montreal Canadiens sometimes find themselves caught up in inexperience, and we sometimes wonder if Sean Monahan was not the ideal player to lead the attack.
Trading the Ontarian to the Winnipeg Jets in February, when his value was high, was the right thing to do. Fans are already dazzled by the raw talent of Michael Hage in the NCAA, whose selection in the last draft was made possible thanks to this transaction.
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Monahan then accepted a contract offer from the Columbus Blue Jackets, and although he was affected by the death of his good friend Johnny Gaudreau, he is giving general manager Don Waddell a run for his money.
For Martin St-Louis, he was a veteran “capable of playing in different situations” and much more.
“He is what we needed with all our young people. He ticked a lot of boxes for us,” assured the CH head coach after Saturday’s morning training.
“He’s a guy who has an excellent effect on a locker room, on a team,” recalled David Savard, himself considered one of the most influential voices in the room. “He’s a guy who has a perfect work ethic. He was appreciated by everyone.”
The perfect example
Chemistry operates in Columbus. Monahan, flanked by Russians Dmitri Voronkov, Kirill Marchenko and Yegor Chinakhov, leads the way on the first trio. Young people see him as an example.
“He did a bit of the same thing here,” Savard explained. He brings everyone on board, so to speak. In the old days, it wasn’t always like that, veterans helping young people. This is a great example. He makes sure everyone feels good in the locker room and that everyone is part of the team. It’s nice to see that he takes this role to heart.”
Habs players over the age of 30 can be counted on the fingers of one hand: Savard, Brendan Gallagher, Mike Matheson, Josh Anderson and Joel Armia. One more veteran won’t solve all the problems, but we’re starting to believe that it can’t do any harm.
Seeking to find a balance between youth and experience, St. Louis sends a subtle message. Will GM Kent Hughes listen?
“We’re definitely young. You can’t have enough veterans. It’s a balance. The veteran will take ice time or [retarder] a player’s progress. There are some of these guys, but there aren’t many of them,” recalled the pilot, thoughtfully.
To find players these days, there are trades and waivers, but a few experienced forwards are still unattached. Blake Wheeler, Phil Kessel, Cal Clutterbuck and Sam Gagner, to name a few, are all waiting at home.
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How will Michael Hage’s addition influence the Canadiens’ future performance and development?
**Interview with Hockey Analyst Alex Fournier**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Alex. Let’s talk about the recent developments with the Montreal Canadiens, particularly regarding Sean Monahan. What are your thoughts on the decision to trade him to the Winnipeg Jets?
**Alex Fournier:** Thank you for having me. The trade was strategic for the Canadiens. Monahan’s value was at its peak, and moving him allowed the team to not only get some assets but also provided them with the opportunity to draft promising talent, like Michael Hage. This is crucial for the team’s rebuilding phase.
**Interviewer:** Fans seem excited about Michael Hage. How impactful do you think his addition will be to the team?
**Alex Fournier:** Hage is a raw talent and has already made waves in the NCAA. His skills can complement the young core of the Canadiens, and if he develops well, he could be a significant asset. It’s all about surrounding young players with the right talent and mentorship, which is something the Canadiens are working towards.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of mentorship, how do you assess Monahan’s impact on the Blue Jackets, especially after facing personal challenges?
**Alex Fournier:** Monahan is a resilient player. Despite his friend Johnny Gaudreau’s passing, he’s managed to show leadership and versatility in Columbus. General Manager Don Waddell must appreciate having a player like him, who can adapt to various roles and help a young team find its footing.
**Interviewer:** Canadiens head coach Martin St-Louis mentioned Monahan ‘ticked a lot of boxes’ for the team. Can you elaborate on what he’s referring to?
**Alex Fournier:** Certainly! Monahan brings experience and a wealth of skill. His ability to play in different situations, whether it’s in a scoring role or on the penalty kill, adds depth to the lineup. With a young team like the Canadiens, having someone who can guide and support in various game phases is invaluable.
**Interviewer:** what should we expect from the Canadiens moving forward, given their current state of rebuilding?
**Alex Fournier:** The Canadiens are clearly committed to a youth movement, and fans should be patient. Expect to see more trades and strategic moves to build the roster for the future. The focus will likely be on developing these young talents and creating a cohesive unit that can compete down the line. It may take time, but the foundation is being laid.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Alex, for your insights on the Canadiens and Sean Monahan.
**Alex Fournier:** My pleasure, and thanks for discussing these important changes in the sport!
