We must give back to Caesar what belongs to Caesar. After taking a lot of criticism lately, the Canadiens had a good week.
Knowing how important the holiday trip is for the rest of the season, CH started with a great win in Winnipeg. I liked the high level of commitment from all the players. They will need to repeat that performance in every game if they want to still be in the playoff race come March.
Last year the journey was difficult, dashing the team's hopes of making the playoffs. Most players in the current edition have experienced the failure of 2022. They must now learn from their experiences. This time it got off to a good start.
In order to be successful in their further stay abroad, the players must demonstrate a playoff mentality, as they did against the Jets. It is also a seven-game sequence, like in the playoffs. And like in the series, you shouldn't look at the top of the mountain right from the start, but rather go step by step.
Last week, Martin St-Louis stressed the importance of playing within the faceoff circles. His men answered the call, which is very encouraging.
There is nothing new about this concept. When I was in charge, I told my players that the vast majority of goals are scored in three ways: when the goalie doesn't see the puck, when a shot is deflected, and from a rebound. Of course, sometimes you see tic-tac-toes and nice games, but that happens less often.
So it's the same message as “playing from within.” To increase their chances of scoring, players must get their noses dirty and not hesitate to go where it hurts.
In professional sports you always have to start over again. It's a huge challenge to keep engagement at the highest level in every game.
This allowed Josh Anderson to finally be rewarded. Despite running out of fuel, he always maintained an impeccable work ethic. Through persistence, he managed to get back on track.
Jayden Struble is causing a stir
Speaking of hard work, Jayden Struble worked hard with the Rockets before being called up by the big club. He took the opportunity to show the extent of his talent.
Compared to another defender like Logan Mailloux, we haven't heard of him much, but we have to admit that Struble is capable of competing in the National League. The young man impresses me.
In order to follow your path, you need someone who believes in you and gives you a chance. It reminds me of the story of Francis Bouillon, a player in whom I always had great trust and who followed me almost everywhere.
When I watch Struble play since he arrived in Montreal, I see that he takes responsibility in his territory, that he makes a good first pass and that he supports the attack well.
Struble is another example that proves that young people aren't wasting their time in the American League. The fact that they are making so much progress in Laval is thanks to Jean-François Houle and the entire Rocket coaching staff. They don't get enough credit for my taste. Their outstanding work ensures that every player recalled by CH shows that they can play at the highest level.
As this is my last column before Christmas, I would like to conclude by wishing you all a happy holiday. See you again in 2024!