“I’m in the best physical shape for the first time in several years.”
– Sean Monahan
– Field hockey 360 (@hockey360) June 21, 2023
For the first time since signing his contract, Sean Monahan spoke to the media. Although not the most expressive of the bunch, the Canadiens’ center forward seemed happy to be there.
Why? Because he’s happy to be in shape.
Even though he said last year that he was in shape, he said that every player is going to say they’re in shape, but they’re the only ones who really know how they feel.
And right now, he feels better than he did last year. It’s been “four or five years” since the man who skates a few times a week these days has felt this way.
So he wants to help the Habs make the playoffs. After all, he’s proud to play for the Habs, and he felt he wasn’t done doing what he had to do with the Habs and their fans.
So he’s happy to be in town to help the young core progress. That’s what it takes.
But that’s not what I’m getting out of this. Monahan, who is a great asset to the Habs, said the presence of Martin St-Louis is a big factor in his return.
“Martin St-Louis is in the Hall of Fame as a player, but he’s also in the Hall of Fame as a person (…), I’ve never had a coach like this in my life and he’s part of the reason I decided to come back to Montreal.”
– Sean Monahan
– Field hockey 360 (@hockey360) June 21, 2023
In bursts
– Jayden Struble has something to say.
I remember when the left lane meant something. #BringItBack
– Jayden Struble (@jaydenstruble) June 21, 2023
– The salary cap won’t go up much.
With NHL free agency on the horizon, it’s believed the 2023-24 salary cap ceiling will be set at $83.5M – an indication the NHL and NHLPA won’t negotiate a higher increase than the $1M called for in their MOU.
– Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) June 21, 2023
– Well done.
We’ve signed Adam Gaudette to a one-year, two-way contract. #stlblues https://t.co/OYceEeNpRa
– St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) June 21, 2023
– Sean Monahan wants to stay in Montreal. [BPM Sports]
– Tough break.