Bergevin Clears Up a Number of Montreal Canadiens Rumors

In his latest 31 Thoughts article, Elliotte Friedman spoke with Montreal Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin and was able to get the GM to clear up a number of rumors surrounding the team:

Was Bergevin Trading Petry?

First off, Bergevin said he was “not even close” to moving defenseman Jeff Petry or forward Tomas Tatar. Admitting he received calls on both players, he never looked to shop either player, nor did he initiate conversations about either player with other general managers.

With that in mind, he was asked if he wanted to extend Jeff Petry when he can sign a contract extension on July 1, Bergevin responded, “I have guys in mind I need to do that with, yes, but I can’t tell you that because they will use it against me.”

Re-Signing Max Domi

There has been some talk that maybe the Canadiens might be looking to move forward Max Domi. When asked if he thought he’d have trouble getting Max Domi extended, he said, “No.”

So, not only does that sound like Domi isn’t on the move, but Montreal plans to sign the pending restricted free agent. This, of course, could change.

How Likely is a Carey Price Trade?

Friedman pointed out there was another rumour — when agent Gerry Johanssen visited goaltender Carey Price in January — that Price was unhappy and might want out of Montreal. Bergevin was asked for his comments.

“Never, never, never,” the GM emphatically answered. Friedman noted that Bergevin didn’t even let Friedman get the rest of the question out before he cut him off with his answer.

Will Montreal Be Busy in Free agency?

Marc Bergevin said during his post-deadline press conference that he was going to look at a number of ways to improve the team in both the short-term and long-term. Did that mean he planned to be busy as free agency opened up on July 1?

“We’re always going to look around,” Bergevin said. Even though another GM from inside the room where all of the other GM’s were meeting warned him, ‘On July 1, do yourself and your organization a favour and put your phone away.’”, Bergevin planned to look around.

Still, the GM said he actually likes his team and that when they play to their optimum level and are healthy, he thinks they’re a playoff team. He won’t make changes to the team because fans expect it.

He called center a position of strength for the team, even if some of their guys need a bit more experience. He claims the addition of Nick Suzuki really helps. He does admit the left side of their blue line could use some help.

What About Players Not Wanting to Play in Montreal?

“It’s not for everybody — that’s fair to say,” said Bergevin. Saying some players are sensitive or the pressure is too great, it’s a tough market to perform in. He says he can only imagine what young players think of the pressure to be “on” for 82 games per season.

One of the players rumored to be potentially on the trade block was Jonathan Drouin. Bergevin said “Jo had a really good start,” and felt he was adding another level before injuries derailed his season. He believes Drouin can get back there.

Finally, Is He Worried About His Job As GM?

Bergevin has two years remaining on his contract and was asked if he was at concerned with his job security or if he might make a trade to save his job. He said he thinks the team is in decent shape despite a lack of success this season and he will never make a move hoping to save his job. He has too much respect for the Canadiens and (owner) Geoff Molson.

“I love my job, and if it costs me my job, so be it. Because I want my boss to go to bed at night knowing his organization is in good hands.”

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