Shea Weber was not only a great hockey player, but he was also a class act. He was also one of the good guys. He’ll likely never play hockey again. And, after his contract was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday from the Montreal Canadiens, he’s no longer actually in the Canadiens’ organization.
But don’t tell him that. Yesterday, he stopped to take time to issue a press release to share a fond farewell to the Canadiens team and organization Friday.
Related: Canadiens Getting Trade Calls on Josh Anderson, Latest on Jeff Petry
The Trade Doesn’t Really Matter, But Here Are the Specifics
The Canadiens traded Weber (as noted, it was his contract) to Vegas in exchange for forward Evgenii Dadonov. The 36-year-old Canadiens’ defenseman has sustained multiple injuries over the seasons; and, they finally caught up to him and forced him out of the game.
The Golden Knights will move his contract directly to the LTIR and use it to accrue salary-cap space to gain some relief. It was all just a business deal.
Weber’s Message Was Heartfelt and So Very Canadian
However, there was obviously more than business for Weber. In the statement he released, he shared some of his dreams as a child – such a very Canadian perspective. Specifically, he noted that:
“Growing up playing hockey in Canada, it’s every kid’s dream to play in the NHL. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have not only done that, but (also) to have had a chance to do so for a Canadian team and a member of the Original 6.”
Then Weber got specific about the Habs’ organization when he said:
“Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined playing for let alone being named captain of the Montreal Canadiens. Pulling on that legendary jersey every night was one of the greatest honors of my career and it’s something I appreciated every chance I got.”
Weber continued: “I want to thank my teammates, coaches, trainers, management, the entire organization, Geoff Molson and the Molson family, the Montreal media, and most of all, the fans for embracing me and my family and for making the city feel like a second home. Montreal will always be in my heart. Merci pour tout.”
Weber Had Six Great Seasons with Montreal After Coming from Nashville
Weber played with the Canadiens from the 2016-17 season through the 2020-21 season. He missed the entire 2021-22 season. During that time the native of British Columbia was a great player and a solid representative for his team.
He’ll be missed. We wish him good luck in his retirement.
Related: Canadiens Trade Shea Weber’s Contract for Vegas’ Evgenii Dadonov
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