In theory, Sunday night’s game between the Canadiens and the Bruins doesn’t mean much, but for Patrice Bergeron, it will mean something.
Posted at 1:04 p.m.
The Canadian is preparing for a grand tribute evening in memory of Guy Lafleur, and Bergeron is already happy to be part of it. Because the former number 10 has a very special place in his memories.
“I’m a guy from Quebec, and Guy ended his career with the Nordiques, explained the Bruins player on Sunday morning. I vaguely remember his last game at the Coliseum in Quebec, and the ceremony that took place. He was my father’s favorite and he was an idol for many, whether they were fans of the Canadiens or the Nordiques. »
Bergeron never had the chance to meet Lafleur, let alone see him go during his glory years with the Canadiens – the Bruins star player was born in 1985, after Lafleur left Montreal –, but as several, he had the opportunity to watch it with the magic of video.
“When you come across old clips of Canadian games, what you notice about Guy is his speed… that’s the first thing you notice. You can see his own speed compared to other players, that’s what strikes you, like the quality of his skate, the quality of his shot… and also his hair in the wind! »
I think the ceremony (on Sunday evening) is going to be unique and special. I’m sure it’s going to be a great tribute. The Canadiens always do things big… So it’s going to be special to be part of that night.
Patrice Bergeron
For his part, Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy doesn’t necessarily have fond memories of Guy Lafleur, because the big guy used to hurt the Bruins badly in the good old days.
“Especially during the 1979 playoffs!, he recalled. It was a very good series for Guy and the Canadiens, but not so good for Don Cherry and the Bruins… So there is this rivalry between the Canadiens and the Bruins, but there is also this mutual respect, and this respect that we all had for Guy, even for those who were Bruins fans. »