WASHINGTON | Jonathan Drouin has enough experience to know his turn would come. After two games in the stands against the Maple Leafs and the Red Wings, the Quebecer donned the Canadiens’ uniform for the first time in a 3-1 loss against the Capitals.
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Aware that he did not have a good camp and that he had to chase rust after a long period of inactivity, Drouin has kept the right attitude since the start of the season. He didn’t create waves, putting the interests of the team ahead of his own.
“I was not deciding the formation, I had to accept it and live with this reality, recognized Drouin in the locker room of the opposing team at Capitol One Arena. I had to see it one way. I just had one thing to do and that was work. It was my only option.”
“There are young players here and I have to remain a good role model,” he continued. I wanted to show the guys that I wanted to regain my place in the formation. I worked hard in the last days with Martin and the other coaches. Even if I wasn’t playing, I kept smiling. I still have the chance to improve.”
Drouin’s attitude did not go unnoticed.
“I didn’t know much about Jo before camp because he was injured last year,” recalled Martin St-Louis. He acts like a pro. I work with him. I don’t know if it can pay off, but I know that Jo understands that I want to help her.”
After Friday’s morning practice in Detroit, St. Louis devoted long minutes to the team’s reserves, remaining on the ice with Drouin, Michael Pezzetta and Corey Schueneman.
Of style
There was the image of Carey Price waving to the crowd with his cowboy hat during the introduction of the players for the opening game at the Bell Centre. But that wasn’t the only highlight before that game against the Maple Leafs.
Drouin wore a jacket and tie when he was introduced to the spectators. He received a very warm welcome. It’s as if the crowd were trying to send him a dose of energy.
Number 27 had not yet spoken of this moment with the journalists. He did it after his game in Washington.
“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 always warms the heart, I’m a local guy. It’s always pleasant when you live a moment like that.
“I know the fans in Montreal perfectly, I’ve been playing there for eleven years and I will always have respect for this crowd,” added winger Brendan Gallagher. We have gone through many hardships as a team. The supporters always remain with us. And they wanted to encourage Jo. He is a talented player, I was happy to see him in action again.