BROSSARD, QC – Jonathan Drouin still has a zero in the goals column this season, but he is enjoying his best moments in a long time with the Montreal Canadiens.
Drouin had three assists Thursday in the Habs’ 4-3 win over the Nashville Predators. It was the first time since the 2021 season opener, January 13, 2021 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, that he had three points in a game.
He has five assists in his last five outings.
The Quebec forward generates scoring opportunities despite a discreet five-on-five role on the fourth line. He is mainly found on the blue line in the first unit of the power play.
“I like my game, my pace, my decisions,” Drouin said Friday. I have a chance. Yes, I have a zero in the goals column, but there are positives. »
Last Saturday, Drouin came within inches of scoring his first goal since January 1, 2022. His shot snuck through the equipment of Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington, but Josh Anderson pushed the puck into the back of the net as it crossed the goal line.
“It was a big goal. We were laughing on the bench because we didn’t know who had scored, said Drouin, who assured not to blame his friend Anderson for stealing a goal from him. It was an important victory, which ended our losing streak. »
Two of Drouin’s three assists Thursday against the Predators came on the power play.
Head coach Martin St-Louis has repeatedly said over the past few weeks how the power play can affect players’ confidence, positively or negatively.
Drouin hasn’t scored on the power play since Oct. 19, 2019, a drought that now spans 123 games and nearly 289 minutes of ice time in that phase of play.
“He’s more of a playmaker than a scorer, but he expects to score goals and that will come,” insisted St-Louis. His keys are good. It helps the power play.
“In space, ‘Jo’ has great tools, he sees the ice well and makes good plays. I am happy that he is having success and regaining his confidence. »
Drouin is serving the final season of a six-year, US$33 million contract signed immediately after acquiring the Lightning de Tampa Bay back from the defender Mikhail Sergachev.
He has been plagued by numerous injuries since the fall of 2019, including injuries to both wrists. He says he is currently in good health.
“It’s a season where it seems like everyone has minor injuries. But I haven’t got anything major right now,” Drouin said. I feel good. »
All that’s left to do is turn all that positive energy into a goal.