Jonathan Marchessault's scathing statement about the Canadiens and their fans

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Guillaume Bergeron
July 1, 2024 (3:44 PM)

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Photo credit: TVA Sports

In an interview with TVA Sports, Jonathan Marchessault was candid about his intentions, his new challenge, and the interest shown by the Canadiens.

The winner of the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2023 officially became a free agent after parting ways with the Golden Knights and swiftly signed a 5-year, $27.5 million deal with the Nashville Predators.

The Quebec native did not mince words during a live television interview. He confirmed that the Canadiens were interested in his services and that he came close to reaching an agreement with the Tricolore:

"The team that interested me the most, aside from Nashville, was Montreal. I really thought about it for a long time. There were good discussions with Montreal, I find that the organization and coaching staff are quite inspiring," the 33-year-old athlete also mentioned. "I think they are really doing great things and I would have liked to be part of that story."

However, the veteran received a call from Steven Stamkos, his new teammate with the Preds, and the scales tipped towards Nashville. But Marchessault also admitted that the pressure and the market in Montreal worried him and his family.

"I came once a year and I thought it was okay. There's so much media and pressure. I also wondered if it was worth having my name in the newspaper every day or every two days. Either you're a king or you're a zero.

They are old enough to understand all this. At school, are they being teased? These are things to consider, not just as a hockey player, but also as a father."

- J. Marchessault in an interview with TVA Sports

It carries significant weight. Ultimately, the Quebecois perhaps did not want to experience the Montreal circus...

Previously on habslatest

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The Predators and Barry Trotz are mocking the NHL and stealing the show

Alert: significant signing of a Quebecer with the Montreal Canadiens

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1 JUILLET \| 400 ANSWERS Jonathan Marchessault's scathing statement about the Canadiens and their fans Would you have offered the same contract for Marchessault?
Yes	114	28.5 %
No	286	71.5 %
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