Martin St-Louis shares candid early thoughts on Alexandre Texier's fit in Montreal
The arrival of Alexandre Texier with the Montreal Canadiens is already raising several important questions, and Martin St-Louis wanted to clarify what he sees in him.
Since his arrival in Montreal this week, Texier has drawn attention because of his unusual path and the role he could occupy on a roster still in flux.
Even if the player seems ready, the Habs' coach wants to proceed carefully before asking too much of him right away. I like this way of seeing things. It's in this context that Martin St-Louis shared a very clear and fairly honest analysis of what he really thinks of Texier.
We understand that the Canadiens signed him for a good reason, but that his exact role is not yet fully defined.
St-Louis sees potential but wants Texier to understand the Canadiens' structure
Speaking to the media, St-Louis said:
"He's got high level of skill. He needs to get acclimated with the group. He needs to figure out how we play collectively on both sides of the puck." - MSL
The coach then added that nothing is confirmed:
"I don't know how fast he comes into our lineup, and when he does - I don't know where he's going to play yet." - St-Louis added
These words show clearly that Texier is not arriving as a savior but rather as an interesting project the Canadiens want to develop at their own pace.
"We like the potential of the player or else we wouldn't have signed him"
- Martin St-Louis
- Martin St-Louis
For me, if St-Louis is talking about a gradual integration, it's mainly to avoid rushing a guy who is coming back from a difficult journey. I think Texier will quickly win people over with his intelligence and speed.
And I think he'll earn his place at the right moment, for himself and for the team, because he seems more motivated than ever.
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