The Canadiens’ fifth and final playoff game was also the very last of David Savard’s NHL career.
After the game, the Montreal players shook hands with the Washington players, and even they knew it was Savard’s last NHL game.
The defenseman received several long hugs from his opponents. A nice gesture of respect from the Capitals.
The best part (and a little sad) is that Savard got a lot of love from his teammates after the game. He was seen in tears in the arms of several of his teammates.
The players saw him as an example in the dressing room, almost like a father. He was the kind of veteran the Canadiens needed to reach the playoffs.
In a post-game interview, his teammates showered him with flowers.
“We really wanted to win it for him. […] He had quite an impact on our youngsters in the dressing room. It’s all to his credit.” – Alexandre Carrier
“I sometimes needed his help. He’s one of the best guys in this locker room and I wish we could have extended his career by a few games.” – Nick Suzuki
“We would have liked to give him a better end to his career, but everyone will remember what a good teammate he was.” – Jake Evans
Even his head coach Martin St-Louis took the time to explain what a professional Savard was in that locker room.
David Savard retires with a fine record: 870 regular-season games and 62 playoff games.
We can’t forget his Stanley Cup, which he won in 2021 with the Tampa Bay Lightning against the Canadiens.
He’s earned his retirement and accomplished a great deal in rebuilding the Canadiens.
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