In case you missed anything, or want to relive something, here’s a quick recap of the main highlights for the month of October.
Many people had low expectations for this team going into the 2018-19 season, but the Montreal Canadiens have been a pleasant surprise. Who knew having low expectations would be so much fun?
There’s a new captain in town
The Canadiens started the month of October by naming their 30th captain — Shea Weber. Some were surprised by this choice as the 33-year-old defender has been off the ice since December 17, 2017, but he’s expected to suit up before we ring in the new year.
Some were hoping that Brendan Gallagher would be sporting the C this season, but I say keeping him as alternate was a better choice for the time being. Gallagher must stay Gallagher. It’s worked so far.
Related
Montreal Canadiens name Shea Weber captain
Finding the net first
Remember the first Habs goal of the season? Artturi Lehkonen does!
Arturri Lehkonen has the first #Habs goal of the year, and a celly that Nic Deslauriers would appreciate pic.twitter.com/zEUlDFEjY7
— Scott Matla (@scottmatla) October 3, 2018
Plekanec’s grand night
Tomas Plekanec made his 1000th NHL game appearance on October 15, and scored a goal against the Red Wings to make it extra special. The 35-year-old veteran was given a standing ovation and an awesome “I’m not crying, you’re crying” in-game tribute honouring his accomplishment.
He hit the ice for just one more game after that, as he’s been out with a lower-back injury ever since.
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Bell Centre provides fitting tribute to a great Canadiens servant
Price passes Roy in style
On October 23, Carey Price tied Patrick Roy for Canadiens’ all-time wins in a 3-2 victory over the Calgary Flames.
Sure, that’s impressive, but just days later he put the cherry on top. Who are we kidding? He also covered it in whipped cream, drizzled it with chocolate sauce and threw on some sprinkles for good measure.
On a Saturday night, Price made 33 saves to shut out the Bruins, in Boston. How sweet it is.
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On the day Carey Price passed Patrick Roy, he reminded us why he’s Carey Price
Hello, Kotkaniemi
Jesperi Kotkaniemi has been catching everyone’s attention ever since he was chosen third overall at this year’s draft. He went on to be better than expected at training camp. In fact, he did so well that he made the opening-night roster. He’s since gained many fans with his still-growing skills, determination, and contagious smile.
He continued to impress as the month of October went on. So much so that he made it past his nine-game tryout and signed on for the season. His entry-level contract officially kicked in during his 10th game against the Bruins on October 27.
When asked if he expects to stay with the Canadiens for the rest of the season, Kotkaniemi replied, “I’m just trying to keep smiling and doing my best.”
And we appreciate both of those things, Jesperi.
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Jesperi Kotkaniemi is staying with the Montreal Canadiens
Bye, bye Jacob
Jacob de la Rose didn’t get the chance to suit up with the Canadiens at all this season after suffering a “cardiac episode” as the pre-season came to a close.
The Canadiens took a chance and placed him on waivers but he got scooped up by the Red Wings. He’s since played two games with Detroit, but has yet to pick up a point.
Related
Jacob de la Rose claimed off waivers by Detroit Red Wings
Points all around
So far this season, we’ve witnessed the Canadiens playing as a team:
- 18 players have at least one point
- Max Domi leading in points with 11 (5G, 6A)
- 14 players have scored goals
- Gallagher is leading the charge with seven goals
- Jeff Petry is grabbing all the apples (8A)/
