Judging by the applause, shouts and cheers given to Cayden Primeau during playoff games in Laval, fans are already seeing him as the Habs’ next big star in goal. However, they might have to wait before witnessing his entry into the big club.
Posted at 6:00 a.m.
If Montreal has its number 31, Laval has its own. Primeau has proven to be the centerpiece of the Rocket’s playoff success, and the 22-year-old goaltender is coming off what could be the most defining season of his young career.
“I like the big moments and playing under pressure. I like finding myself in this environment, that’s what motivates me,” explained Primeau during the team’s season review on Thursday.
The Cerberus experienced the frenzy of the series in a very particular way. Not only because he was acclaimed and the fans chanted his name many times during the playoff games at Place Bell, but also because he did not expect to be so successful. This campaign has not been smooth sailing and he is grateful to have been able to make the necessary corrections.
When things were bad, I talked to the sports psychologist of the team. I’m a better goaltender, I’m stronger mentally than I was at the start of the season, and I’m grateful to have been able to go through this process.
Cayden Primeau
Even though he didn’t reach the Calder Cup final with his team, Primeau talks about the playoff run he’s just had with sparkling eyes and a smile hanging from ear to ear. He led his team to Game 7 of the conference final with a 2.17 goals-against average and .936 save percentage.
“It’s been a really fun season and it’s been great to be part of this group for the past month and a half. I’ve never had so much fun playing hockey,” he said.
One more season
Despite the resounding success he had with the Rocket and a short stint with the Canadiens during the season, the goaltender refuses to have excessive expectations for the next season.
“It will definitely be the biggest summer of my career. I’m going to give everything I can this summer to show up for camp and hope for the best. »
Auxiliary goaltender Kevin Poulin also wanted to warn fans. The veteran explained that even if his young teammate has a certain talent and great potential, he would need an additional season in the American League before officially making the jump to the NHL.
“I think he should continue in the American League. It’s hard because since the beginning of his career, there has been COVID-19, bubbles and the reserve team. I think he needs to have a solid year in the American League, where he’s going to play a lot of games, so that the focus is right on the Rocket. Afterwards, he should be okay, ”said the 32-year-old goalkeeper, who himself played around fifty games in the big league.
After all, only five goaltenders 23 and under have held full-time positions in the NHL this season. Primeau will be 23 on August 11.
That’s why head coach Jean-François Houle explained that “not just for him, but for young players in the American League, you have to be patient, you have to take your time to be sure to develop the players well. , and that [peut être long] sometimes. It is not good to skip steps”.
Everyone agrees, however, that Primeau has many qualities, that he was the catalyst for the success of the Rocket in the playoffs, that he has a bright future ahead of him and that he will charm hockey fans. south of Jesus Island.