Even several days after the major announcement of Martin St-Louis leaving the Montreal Canadiens, the matter continues to be a topic of conversation.
The lack of information on this subject fuels speculation, and one of them raises the serious possibility that the absence of the head coach could extend to the end of the season.
"We might have to get used to it, because, as Kent Hughes indicated on Monday noon at the end of the general managers' meeting, 'we have no idea when he might return.'" - via Jonathan Bernier, le Journal de Montréal
Although it is difficult to comment without knowing the full extent of the situation currently concerning Martin's son, given the Canadiens' losing season and about fifteen games left in the season, it is possible to believe that his absence could stretch to the end, as journalist Bernier notes, and that would be entirely legitimate.
There is nothing more important than family in life, and at the time of his hiring in 2022, the biggest issue for St-Louis was related to the fact that he was leaving home, leaving his sons, still very young, without their father on a daily basis.
"Let's also mention that St-Louis, in taking the job in 2022, had said he didn't want to leave home before his children were gone, but that to coach in the NHL, he had made an exception. However, he felt that his sons had the tools in hand to justify the move to Montreal." - via DLC
The context that Martin mentioned at the time of his hiring completely changes the stakes for him. Now, he must place his family at the forefront of his priorities, even before his commitment to the Canadiens.
It will be interesting to see in the coming days if there will be developments in this regard, but for now, the important thing is to wish the best for the St-Louis family.
