Al-Kindi: A Journey Like a Chain

We must give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s. After receiving a lot of criticism recently, the Canadiens have had a good week.

Given how important the offseason trip is to the rest of the season, CH started things off with a big win in Winnipeg. I liked the level of commitment from all the players. They need to replicate this type of performance in every game if they still want to be in the playoff race in March.

Last year, the trip was difficult, which ended the team’s hopes of making the playoffs. Most of the players in the current version have experienced the failure of 2022. They must now learn from their experience. It’s a good start this time.

To continue to have success the rest of their time overseas, the players will have to have a playoff mentality, as they did against the Jets. It is also a seven-game series, like the playoffs. As in the series, you don’t have to look at the top of the mountain from the beginning, but rather take it step by step.

Last week, Martin St. Louis insisted on the importance of playing inside the opposition circles, and his men have answered the call, which is very encouraging.

There is nothing new in this concept. When I was in charge, I told my players that the vast majority of goals were scored in three ways: when the goalkeeper didn’t see the ball, when the shot was deflected, and when it bounced. Of course, sometimes you see tic-tac-toe games and cute toys, but that’s rare.

So it’s the same message as “playing from within”. To increase their chances of scoring, players must get their noses dirty and not hesitate to go where it hurts.

In professional sports, you always have to start over. It is a big challenge to keep the level of participation at the maximum level in every match.

This allowed Josh Anderson to finally get his reward. Despite running out of gas, he always maintained an impeccable work ethic. Through perseverance, he was able to get back on track.

Jayden Strobel turns heads

Speaking of hard work, Jayden Strobel worked hard for the Rocket before being called up by the big club. He took the opportunity to show how talented he was.

We haven’t heard much about him, compared to another defender like Logan Maillox, but we have to admit that Strobl is capable of holding his own in the National League. I like the guy.

To make your way, you need someone who believes in you and gives you a chance. It makes me think of the story of Francis Bouillon, a player I always trusted a lot and who accompanied me almost everywhere I went.

When I watch Strobel play since he arrived in Montreal, I see that he is responsible in his area, that he makes a good first pass, and that he supports the attack well.

Strobel is another example that proves that young people are not wasting their time in the American League. If they are progressing a lot at Laval, it is thanks to Jean-François Holly and the entire Rocket coaching staff. They don’t get enough credit for my taste. Their excellent work ensures that every player called up by CH shows that they are capable of playing at the highest level.

In closing, since this is my last column before Christmas, I would like to wish you all a happy holiday season. We’ll see you again in 2024!