Michael Matheson wants to bring some of what he learned during his two seasons in Pittsburgh to the Canadiens locker room.
“I want to use what I learned in the friendships I made at the Penguins and the special culture they created there. That’s what it takes to win in this league, ”commented the new CH defender yesterday in a videoconference.
At 28, with 417 National League games in the body, Matheson will be the second most experienced defenseman in the Canadiens. Only David Savard (673) has played more games than the Montrealer.
They earned their place
But the full-back does not believe he will have a mentoring role with players like Jordan Harris or Justin Barron.
Unless they are the ones seeking his advice.
“The young defenders of the Canadian, they are there for a reason, raises Matheson. They have earned their place, they no longer need a mentor. »
But at the same time, the Montrealer remembers having benefited from the advice of players like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and especially Kristopher Letang, from whom he tries to draw inspiration, during his two seasons spent in the Penguins uniform.
“I’m not saying I’ll be like Sid, Kris or Geno to these kids, these three guys are a good step above me. But if I can do anything to help them, teach them what I learned myself, it can help the team. »
His best offensive season
Traded from the Panthers to the Penguins before the start of the 2020-2021 season, Matheson admits having taken advantage of this change of air to put his career back on the right track.
His last moments in Florida had been laborious and he believes he developed his game a lot in Pittsburgh.
So last year, the left-hander – who wouldn’t refuse to play on the opposite side, where the Canadiens desperately need it – had his best offensive season, with 31 points, including 11 goals.
He does not yet know the role he will occupy in Montreal. But he says he is ready to take the double bites, he who will undoubtedly see more action than with the Penguins, and against better pairs.
“I am ready to advance even further in my career. I know it will be a challenge, but it’s the kind of challenge I want,” he said.
