A few weeks before the start of his second season in the National Hockey League, Juraj Slafkovsky has clearly stated his main goal.

“Just Montreal,” he confidently told the author of his lines during a brief one-on-one interview at the Canadiens’ annual golf tournament.

Why is this statement important? In this context, some people have been advocating in recent weeks for a scenario in which the strong young man is sent to the Laval rocket to launch the upcoming election campaign.

But obviously Slafkovsky, who scored 10 points in 39 games last year, doesn’t want to hear about it.

“I now have a year of experience in the NHL and I expect things to get easier for me.”

Interesting fact: The 19-year-old striker’s words correspond well with those of his coach Martin St-Louis, who revealed to all the press that he would be “very surprised not to see Slafkovsky in Montreal.” at the start of the season.

“I want to be better everywhere”

Furthermore, the Slovakian obviously has “high expectations” for himself for the new year. As a sign that he has indeed gained experience, he refused to elaborate on a question on the subject.

“I have goals, but I won’t share them today. That’s the kind of statement that can backfire on you. But I can tell you that I will do my best every night.”

And when it comes to the aspects of his game he wants to improve from last year, Slafkovsky doesn’t wear white gloves.

“Everyone! To be honest, I want to be better everywhere. That’s how I’ll help the team.”

St-Louis also has a good idea of ​​how to maximize his colt’s potential contribution.

“He is the overall first choice and puts a lot of pressure on himself,” analyzed the trainer from Quebec. For me there has to be a balance between pressure and pleasure. He must have fun. He shouldn’t put too much on his shoulders.

“We want to help him to the best of our ability,” St-Louis continued. We must be careful not to kill his passion. He loves hockey. If we ask him too quickly and kill his passion, he will stop improving. We have to find the balance.”

Before he sets off for the greens of the Laval-sur-le-Lac golf club, Slafkovsky speaks briefly to the fans.

“I’m very happy to be here again! The wait was long.”

It’s up to him (and his teammates) to shorten the wait next summer…

In the video above: Slafkovsky’s comments to members of the press.