David Savard is ready to take on a mentoring role with the young players of the Montreal Canadiens during what will be “a somewhat special year” for the team with all the changes that have taken place in recent months.
The Quebec defender admits that with so many new faces, the group will need some time to develop chemistry. However, he is eager to see what Martin St-Louis can accomplish during his first training camp as head coach.
“It’s going to be exciting to start fresh,” said Savard, visiting NHL official Jonny Murray’s Extreme Power Skating hockey school in Quebec City. Martin will be able to bring a new philosophy. […] Last year, he changed things quietly, but this year, he will really be able to install his system. I think it will help our team.”
Even though last season was painful and expectations aren’t very high for 2022-23, Savard believes the Habs’ reconstruction could be faster than expected.
“There are a lot of good young people in Montreal,” said the tall bearded man. Many exchanges last year brought us other good prospects, guys who will have a direct impact. I am very positive. We can try to surprise, but as such, it will really be necessary to create a team spirit and make sure that the group improves every day.
“We see it everywhere in the league: young people are able to have a direct impact now. Sometimes the process goes much faster than you think. I can’t wait to see what we’ll be able to do.”
Regarding Carey Price, who is expected to miss the entirety of next season, Savard underlined how difficult it is for a player to be on the sidelines, away from his teammates. If Price does not return to the game eventually, Savard still hopes that the goalkeeper can lead a normal lifestyle despite his injuries.
See the interview that David Savard delivered to our journalist Stéphane Turcot in the video above.