Is Saku Koivu the most beloved captain in Canadiens history?

When the Montreal Canadiens selected Koivu with the 21st overall pick in the 1993 NHL Draft, few could have imagined the kind of impact the centreman from Finland would have on the franchise. Now, in 2025, 11 years after his retirement, his legacy remains as potent as ever in the hearts of Habs fans.

Koivu's story goes far beyond hockey. It is a story of hope, courage, and resilience. The Canadiens have had captains from all over the world, perennial champions like Henri Richard and elite scorers like Max Pacioretty, but few have touched the hearts of fans the way Koivu did.

Saku Koivu etches his name into Canadiens history

After being drafted in 1993, Koivu finally joined the Canadiens for the 1995-1996 season, and he wasted no time making sure the city of Montreal knew his name. Koivu was named to his first All-Star Game in 1998, and that was only the beginning. The following year, he became the first European captain in franchise history. But in 2001, before training camp began, Koivu's life changed forever.

He was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of cancer. The hockey world was stunned as Koivu, still in his prime, was forced to step away from the game. Early reports suggested he would miss the entire 2001–02 season and some even feared he may never play again.

Yet while their captain fought a personal battle far larger than hockey, the Canadiens rallied, winning 36 games and clinching a playoff spot. Just before the regular season ended, Koivu gave the city a moment it would never forget.

The Koivu comeback

On April 9, 2002, the Canadiens hosted the Ottawa Senators. That night, Koivu returned to the lineup after eight grueling months of chemotherapy. As he stepped onto the Bell Centre ice, the crowd erupted into a standing ovation that lasted nearly eight minutes. Even the Senators tapped their sticks in respect.

Montreal won 4–3, but the score was secondary. The true victory was Koivu’s return. That night, his legacy became unbreakable.

In a franchise that treats its captains like royalty, Koivu became more than a hockey leader; he became a symbol of hope. His poise, humility, and quiet strength resonated deeply with the people of Montreal.

Koivu's legacy only grew off the ice as his loyalty to the community was duly noted. A prime example is the Saku Koivu Foundation, which he helped fund and was a leading supplier of funds to the Montreal General Hospital. By helping to support cancer care and CT scanners for the hospital, Koivu helped countless patients receive cancer care.

He wasn’t just a player; he was a pillar of the community. His loyalty to Montreal and its people was genuine and enduring.

In the summer of 2009, Koivu signed with the Anaheim Ducks. But unlike most star departures, there was no animosity from Habs fans, only gratitude and love. When he returned to the Bell Centre in an Anaheim uniform, he received yet another long, emotional standing ovation.

In a classy move, the Ducks ensured Koivu was on the ice for the game’s final moments so the crowd could say goodbye the Montreal way.

Koivu's legacy is one of a kind

Koivu never lifted the Stanley Cup but was one of the most impactful captains in Canadiens history. He retired following the conclusion of the 2014 season, having spent 13 years with the Canadiens and another five with the Ducks. Koivu remarkably played for 11 more seasons following his cancer diagnosis.

Today, seeing a Koivu jersey evokes memories of elite skill on the ice. But more importantly, his number 11 represents leadership, resilience, and hope. Koivu’s time with the Canadiens will always be remembered for all the right reasons.

While he is not remembered for championship rings, what he stood for and the battle he courageously won means far more in the hearts of many.

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