After a slow start in Colorado, Jonathan Drouin's career has regained strength over the last month. In the last 15 games, the former Canadian forward has 16 points.
• Also read: St-Louis isn't surprised by Drouin's success
• Also read: Samuel Girard claims he grew up after asking for help: 'I wasn't going in the right direction'
With a record of 24 points (10 goals, 14 assists) in 41 games, the 28-year-old athlete is on track to have his best season since his first season in Habs colors. He then stopped the count at 53 points.
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Some will say his life is a little easier because he plays in the company of Nathan MacKinnon, his former partner in the Halifax Mooseheads, and Mikko Rantanen. Two of the most electrifying attackers on the Bettman circuit. Apparently it doesn't do any harm. However, Samuel Girard claims that Drouin isn't just behind his two linemates.
“Jo is a very good skater and a guy who has a good vision of the game. The goals that Nate and Mikko score, sometimes it’s Jo who sets them up,” said the defender. It’s a line that complements each other very well.”
Since he was undergoing treatment and the Avalanche was only conducting optional training, it was not possible to speak to the main person involved. However, his coach was quick to send him flowers.
MacKinnon's influence
Drouin seems to have rediscovered the joy of playing hockey. Through his dedication and the speed with which he adapted and accepted the system, he quickly gained Bednar's trust.
“For me, trust is earned. “When you have a player who is willing to invest and wants to improve to help the team, that is an incentive for the coach,” he said. And Jo works a lot in training and video sessions. He learns well and communicates well with his teammates.”
In addition, we will remember that MacKinnon had good words for him to convince his general manager to trust his accomplice from the QMJHL. The impact on him is therefore undeniable.
“Nate sets high standards for himself and his teammates. Drou has a good relationship with him to accept this criticism and give feedback. It helps him better himself, Bednar said. It's a healthy relationship. It's good for both. It gives Nate a mentorship role and Drou understands that and has honed his skills.”
It's also good for the avalanche. Few teams can rely on a front-line forward making $825,000.