Hours after being acquired by the Montreal Canadiens, Sean assured Monahan that he was already doing everything he could to get back to the level he was playing at, he who has been experiencing a staggering drop in production since 2019.
• Also read: Sean Monahan: The Decline of a Former First Center
• Also read: On the touchline for the 2022/2023 season: Has Carey Price played his last game?
• Also read: Kyle Turris is retiring
The 27-year-old center player was particularly enthusiastic about the idea of moving to CH in a video conference on Thursday evening. He also appeared on screen with a Habs cap as a decoration behind him.
Hear Sean Monahan in the video above.
“I’m looking forward to playing hockey at a high level again and joining the Canadiens,” he said. I’ve only heard good things [au sujet du CH].”
Much to prove
The Brampton, Ontario native hasn’t broken the 30-point mark for the past two seasons. However, in 2018-2019 he had slipped offensively by amassing 82 points in 78 games.
However, he has had many surgeries over the years, most recently on a hip. Injuries slowed him down enough that he was dropped from the Calgary Flames roster once last year by head coach Darryl Sutter.
“I have a lot to prove, especially to myself,” he continued. I know I’m a great player, but it’s been a bumpy road. When you suffer this type of injury, there are consequences for your spirit.
Monahan emphasized that the current summer is of the utmost importance to him. He said he trains on the ice four times a week and doesn’t take shortcuts to get back in shape.
“I work very hard. My goal is to be ready from day one of training camp. I don’t want to go back. I feel good mentally and I want to have a great season with the Canadiens.”
The CH players have almost all reached out to Monahan to welcome him. The former Ottawa 67 is already acquainted with former Flames teammate Paul Byron, as well as summer training partner Jake Evans.
And while he’s happy to continue, he admitted his departure from Calgary is quite heartbreaking, having spent the first nine seasons of his career there.
“I had mixed feelings,” he concluded. [Calgary] has become my second home. But it was time to move on to the next chapter.”