Sean Monahan in Montreal to stay long term?

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Jeff Drouin
August 31, 2022 (12:01)

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Canadiens newcomer Sean Monahan, who was just acquired in a trade with the Calgary Flames, was at the Bell Centre last weekend with his wife to get acquainted with their new environment.

And let's just say the forward is very eager to put on his new uniform and as David St-Jean of Marqueur.com reports, he felt like an 18-year-old again.

"To be honest, I was nervous walking into the locker room. I've been in the same place for almost 10 years, and I'm not really used to change. I only played for one team in junior and I've played for the same team my entire NHL career.

But the visit made me excited. Everyone is very nice, so I feel comfortable and I really felt welcome. This is a special franchise and I'm very happy to be a part of it."

For the 27-year-old center, just the thought of being able to walk into an arena with so much history and with so many great players who have passed through here is practically a dream.

"The history really struck me. There are a lot of pictures of important people who have come through this organization. It's kind of unreal to see those who paved the way for everyone else, making this place such a special place to play.

I was then able to go into the arena, even though a show was being set up, and I know what it's like to go in from the other side. Even playing for the opposing team, I used to get chills when I came in here, so I can only imagine what it will be like when I wear a Canadiens jersey."

But what we're interested in here is what the new Canadiens' color guard's goals will be, and he has a very specific one that will come on a very special day.

I can feel it. I'm practically getting chills right now. It's going to be my birthday, it's going to be the opening game, and we're playing the Leafs. My goal is to be there, play at a high level and do what I can to help the team win games. It would be a great gift for Britt and my family. That's my goal. To face the Leafs on my birthday and on opening night at the Bell Centre, that would be crazy."

Imagine for two seconds being able to wear a Canadiens jersey on his birthday in an opening game. A magical, dream scenario for any hockey player on the planet.

Last I heard, Monahan's hip injury seems to be on the mend and it is more than likely that he will be in the starting lineup for the Habs home opener on October 12. We'll wish him good health until then.

Also, note that the way he talks, it is obvious.

He sounds like a player who intends to stay in Montreal for the long term, not like a young man who wants to stay here only a few months. Will Sean Monahan be in Montreal to stay?

To be continued, but it certainly seems possible!