“Let’s not forget the former Nordic fans!” – Michel Bergeron

For Michel Bergeron, the Colorado Avalanche’s coronation is to credit for Quebec.

Everyone smiles the day after winning the franchise he drove in the old capital in the ’80s, Tiger thinks this first coronation in 21 years is something hockey fans will delight here.

“Let’s not forget the ex-Nordic fans! There are some who stayed with Colorado precisely because they are ex-Nordics, it’s Joe Sakic. For some in Montreal, there is Arturi Likonen who stood out during the playoffs.

“There are several reasons. There were two Quebecers there as well. We are happy for them.”

For the former coach, who twice reached the third round of the NHL Playoffs, the Stanley Cup Final is “one of the best streaks of the past 10 years.”

He is also delighted that his former student at Fleurdelisés, general manager Joe Sakic, is enjoying the prestigious trophy as the club’s engineer.

Big decisions will have to be made regarding the roster of champions, as 10 players will become free agents without compensation, and Artturi Lehkonen, acquired from Montreal Canadiens on the trade deadline, is entitled to arbitrate to negotiate his next contract.

However, the young core, three quick streaks and a great defender in Cal Makar make this team a few flaws.

“There is no doubt that this is the team of the future in the National League,” concludes Michel Bergeron.