The Montreal Canadiens knew they were getting a talented player when they acquired Nick Suzuki from the Vegas Golden Knights.
But a player who would lead the team into a rebuild as the captain, after the team had climbed the mountain and had their fingertips so close to Lord Stanley's cup, that's tough to say. But Suzuki has been everything that Marc Bergevin and the new management group could ever ask for and then some. So it should come as no surprise that the former captain of the Canadiens - Shea Weber has nothing but kind words to describe the Habs captain.
“He’s such a pro, the way he takes care of himself, how he’s committed to the game. He’s gonna keep growing in that role…He’s knowledgeable, respectful, not afraid to ask questions that need to be asked. He’s got values of a leader.”
— /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) June 27, 2024
- Shea Weber today on captain Nick Suzuki pic.twitter.com/gP8XLVSmg4
Suzuki was starting his career, establishing himself as an NHLer and Weber's career was on the back nine. Even if he hadn't suffered ailments he played through during the Canadiens 2021 Stanley Cup run, Weber had less time ahead in his career than behind him. With all that experience he has seen many players - both teammates and opponents - come and go, so he has a good feel for those with character that stands out.
Suzuki is a special player, which is why he has such a special role in Montreal
It's obvious that Suzuki is a special human being; otherwise, he would have never been given the distinction of captaincy. His talent has never been questioned, but his poise and leadership while developing his game are special. Sure, he may never be on the same level as Sidney Crosby, Johnathan Toews or Gabriel Landeskog - but they were all given leadership roles for their clubs at a young age, just like Suzuki.
The thing about Suzuki that stands out is that he never seems shaken, every challenge is welcomed with open arms. He isn't afraid to ask questions and absorbs and implements all his lessons into his game to be more effective. Unsurprisingly, he has been a huge part of the growth and success of Cole Caufield and Juraj Slafkovsky.
Entering the season, each of the three had high expectations, internally and externally, and while Slafkovsky and Caufield wobbled out of the gate, Suzuki was solid as a rock. Guiding, teaching and learning on the fly, while having his best season statistically was just another day at the office for the soon-to-be 25-year-old.