TORONTO – Columbus Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner provides ammunition to those who believe the Montreal Canadiens should not trade David Savard.
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“He’s a fantastic teammate, the best,” praised Jenner, who played for more than seven seasons with Savard in Ohio, during an interview during the NHL All-Star Game in Toronto.
After the departure of Sean Monahan for Winnipeg, the name of the Quebec defender is circulating among the potential targets of other teams between now and the trade deadline, March 8.
Knowing very well that Savard receives an annual salary of $3.5 million until the end of the 2024-2025 season, general manager Kent Hughes has already let it be known that he is not particularly looking to trade the Quebecer.
Jenner can understand. He calls his old friend his ultimate teammate.
“He sacrifices his body for his team and, off the ice, what he brings, his leadership, is always appreciated by the other players,” praised Jenner. “He is an important piece for a team.”
“Very good friends”
At 30, the Blue Jackets forward was the oldest in Toronto this week among those participating in the NHL All-Star Game for the first time.
“He immediately sent me a text message [pour me féliciter]we remain very good friends,” Jenner said of Savard.
During the annual classic on Saturday, the Blue Jackets player also showed great chemistry with another Canadian player, captain Nick Suzuki.
Boone Jenner paired up with Nick Suzuki on Saturday during the All-Star Game in Toronto.
Photo Bruce Bennett/Getty Images via AFP
“I was very honored and super excited to receive this invitation,” he also admitted. “It was a moment to cherish with my family, my friends and everyone who has supported me since the beginning of my career.”
Approaching 700 NHL regular season games, all played with the Blue Jackets, Jenner relished the experience. Especially since the activities were held less than two hours from where he grew up, in Mossley, Ontario.
A cheese lover
Before concluding the interview, Jenner was asked if he didn’t have a special secret to share about Savard.
“I don’t know, he really likes cheese, but at the same time, who doesn’t like it?” Jenner replied, bursting out laughing.