Justin Barron's turn to surprise everyone by speaking French
English-speaking players who come to Montreal are always welcome, but they are even more appreciated when they take the time to speak to us in French.
It is a gesture that is always noticed and is important for the team's culture and history. Let's not forgot that Maurice Richard, among others, made great sacrifices to advance the recognition of the language within the league.
It is a legacy that must not be lost and it is important for many players, even if they are not French-speaking.
This is the case of young defender Justin Barron, who has already spoken to journalists in French a few times, even if he was spoken to in English.
Rare are the players who learn French to speak with the Canadiens fans in both languages. Bob Gainey did it in his time and even if he had trouble speaking, he did it willingly.
Logan Mailloux also likes to speak to the fans in French, but he had taken classes in high school. So he already spoke the language well before arriving in the Canadiens organization, but he is now learning to speak "Québécois".
Otherwise, on a more negative note, Nick Suzuki was recently criticized for not having kept his promise to speak to the fans in French. Chantal Machabée mentions that he is good, but the captain does not feel ready yet.
To return to Justin Barron, he is in the lineup Thursday night, while Jayden Struble is left out even though he has been given the green light by the doctors.
