Nick Suzuki Embraces Captaincy as Canadiens Begin New Era with Opening Night Win

The Montreal Canadiens are ushering in a new era of leadership with 23-year-old Nick Suzuki officially beginning his tenure as team captain. The young center made franchise history as the youngest captain ever to wear the “C” for the Canadiens, and his leadership is already being put to the test as he guides one of the youngest rosters in the NHL.

Montreal enters the season with four rookies on the roster, in addition to young stars Cole Caufield and Kirby Dach, both just 21 years old. For any player, let alone one still early in his own career, it’s a significant responsibility. But Suzuki’s maturity and on-ice performance have already earned the respect of both current teammates and Canadiens legends.

“It’s a great honor to be a captain of the Montreal Canadiens,” said Hall of Famer Yvan Cournoyer, who captained the club during its dominant years in the 1970s. “Last year, we didn’t have one, and I think we need a captain. He’s young, but he’s got a good attitude on the ice and off the ice, and he wants to do well.”

Former captain Brian Gionta, who wore the “C” from 2010 to 2014, echoed Cournoyer’s sentiments. “He’s clearly ready despite his age and his years in the League,” Gionta told NHL.com. “He’s already been there a couple of years, which certainly helps. He’s versed on how things work.”

For Suzuki, stepping into a role filled by some of hockey’s greatest leaders isn’t something he takes lightly. He’s shown a natural ability to connect with his teammates and lead by example — qualities that former captain Guy Carbonneau believes will serve him well.

“You just can’t be a captain one day and not be a captain another day,” Carbonneau said. “Sometimes you have to kind of step up and say what you have to say, and not be shy about it.”

Suzuki and the Canadiens got their season off to a promising start with a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday night. It was a statement win that set the tone for what could be a new chapter for the storied franchise.

With Suzuki at the helm and a promising young core around him, the Canadiens are hoping their rebuild is turning a corner — led by a captain who’s ready to grow with them every step of the way.