Martin St. Louis Returns to Coach Montreal Canadiens
Martin St. Louis, head coach of the Montreal Canadiens, is set to make his return to the NHL team’s bench for their upcoming game against the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday.
Family Reasons
St. Louis had taken a leave of absence from the Canadiens since March 16 due to family reasons. The reason for his absence was revealed to be the injury suffered by his 16-year-old son, Mason, while playing in a hockey game. Mason’s injury complications led to his hospitalization a week later.
Thankfully, Mason’s condition has now stabilized, and he is currently recuperating at the St. Louis family home in Connecticut.
In a statement, St. Louis expressed gratitude for the support received from the Canadiens organization during this challenging time. He emphasized the importance of focusing on his sons Ryan, Lucas, and Mason as they prioritize their family’s well-being.
Interim Head Coach
During St. Louis’ absence, assistant coach Trevor Letowski assumed the role of head coach. The Canadiens managed a 1-1-2 record in their four road games without St. Louis.
St. Louis extended his appreciation to the Canadiens organization, fans, and the hockey community for their understanding and support during Mason’s injury and recovery. He also acknowledged the medical staff for their care and requested privacy for his family.
Professional Journey
St. Louis, a former NHL player with over 1,300 games under his belt for the Calgary Flames, Tampa Bay Lightning, and New York Rangers, took over as Montreal’s head coach on February 9, 2022. He signed a three-year contract extension in June 2022.
The 48-year-old native of Laval, Quebec, boasts an impressive resume, having won a Stanley Cup with the Lightning in 2004, contributed to Canada’s gold medal victory in men’s hockey at the 2014 Olympics, and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018.
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