Drouin sends a message to Canadiens fans and coach St-Louis reacts to the forward's first game of the season

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Jeff Drouin
October 16, 2022 (12:49)

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Saturday night, Jonathan Drouin played his first game of the season after watching the first two games from the stands. He finally finished the game with 15:16 of playing time and over 2 minutes of power play time in the 3-1 loss to the Washington Capitals.

After the game, he admitted that he made the decision to accept his fate quietly and prove to the coaching staff that he belonged in the lineup.

"I wasn't deciding the lineup, I had to accept it and live with that reality. I had to look at it one way. I just had to do one thing and that was to work. That was my only option."

"There are young players here and I have to remain a good role model. I wanted to show the guys that I wanted to earn my place back in the lineup. I worked hard in the last few days with Martin and the other coaches. Even if I wasn't playing, I was still smiling. I still have a chance to improve." - Jonathan Drouin

His coach, Martin St-Louis, was very happy with the first game of his protégé.

"Jonathan played a good game. He was very involved and committed. Since he arrived at training camp, he has been professional. Jonathan knows I'm trying to help him." - Martin St. Louis

During his interview with the media, his first since he was removed from the lineup, the Quebecer also mentioned that he really liked the welcome that the fans gave him last Wednesday night at the Bell Center.

A nice message for the fans:

"I've been here for six years, I've always received great ovations. Especially last year and this year even though I wasn't in uniform. It's always heartwarming, I'm a local guy. It's always nice when you have a moment like that." - Jonathan Drouin

His teammate Brendan Gallagher had some very good words about it after Saturday night's game.

"I know the fans in Montreal very well, I've been playing there for 11 years and I'll always have respect for this crowd," winger Brendan Gallagher echoed. We've been through a lot as a team. The fans always stick with us. And they wanted to cheer for Jo. He is a talented player, I was happy to see him in action again." - Brendan Gallagher