The numbers
Carey Price, the iconic goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens, recently opened up about his career and future on the Never Offside podcast. After a storied career, Price was forced into retirement due to persistent knee issues, leaving behind a record of 35 wins, 24 losses, and 6 overtime losses, alongside an impressive .918 save percentage in his last season.
During the podcast, Price expressed his admiration for young goaltender Jacob Fowler, whom he endorsed as a promising talent. “Always a Hab. Just a teal one for now,” Price remarked, indicating his ongoing connection to the Canadiens despite his retirement. His willingness to mentor Fowler underscores Price’s commitment to the sport and the next generation of players.
Price’s career has been marked by significant achievements, including leading the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup Final in 2021. However, the past two seasons have been challenging for the team, as they missed the playoffs in back-to-back years for the first time since 2001. This downturn coincided with Price’s health struggles, which ultimately led to his retirement announcement.
Reflecting on his time in the league, Price shared, “I miss playing, the camaraderie and the pre-game feeling.” His passion for the game remains evident, even as he transitions away from the ice. Observers note that Price’s insights and experiences could greatly benefit young players like Fowler, who are navigating the early stages of their careers.
In a poignant moment during the podcast, Price recalled the moment he realized a trade was imminent, stating, “I knew a trade to another club was coming after my agent reached out the week prior.” This acknowledgment of the business side of hockey highlights the complexities players face, even those with a legacy like Price’s.
Ryan Poehling, a former teammate, also made headlines recently by scoring a hat trick in his NHL debut for the Canadiens. His success serves as a reminder of the talent that continues to emerge from the organization, a legacy that Price hopes to nurture through his mentorship.
As Price steps into this new role, the hockey community watches closely to see how his influence will shape the future of the Canadiens and the NHL at large. While his playing days may be over, his impact on the game is far from finished. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how much time Price will dedicate to mentoring Fowler and others, but his commitment to the sport remains unwavering.
