The flame of the return of the Nordiques may no longer burn as ardently in the hearts of Quebec hockey fans, but failing to have given them immediate hope, the visit of the Los Angeles Kings to the city will have given them a good dose of love.
• Also read: Kings-Panthers: the party is over in Quebec
Well, you will say that it is rare that we criticize the welcome of our hosts to the face, especially when they invite us with millions, but throughout the five days when the NHL was in Quebec, we felt sincerity in the praise of the players and managers.
The Videotron Center is “an NHL amphitheater,” “modern” and “equipped with world-class facilities,” praised Kings star Anze Kopitar after his team’s first practice.
Photo Stevens LeBlanc
“It was phenomenal,” added defenseman Brandt Clarke about his team’s stay. We are lucky that they welcomed us here. The fans were incredible, they showed us so much love. We are truly grateful.”
“It couldn’t have been more perfect.”
And of course, among the Kings players, there was a certain Phillip Danault. The former Canadian was the only Quebecer to step on the ice during the matches in Quebec and he was entitled to a standing ovation from the fans.
In the locker room on Saturday, the man who also spent the last few days playing tourist guide had stars in his eyes.
“It couldn’t have been more perfect than that,” smiled the Victoriaville native. The fans, the Château Frontenac, show a little of the history to boys…besides, I don’t know how many history questions I was asked. And I don’t know everything either!”
«[Les fans] showed me a lot of love. “It’s really appreciated,” continued the first scorer of Saturday’s match. […] They supported us, they were incredible spectators and I have a lot, a lot of love for them.
2000 people training
Besides, it wasn’t just the Kings who were charmed: the Panthers too. It must be said that the people of Quebec gave them a warm welcome as soon as they arrived in town on Friday. The Stanley Cup champions were congratulated by several fans, they said.
Photo Didier Debusschère
Then, the next morning, there were 2,000 people at their training. When we see the many empty benches some evenings at Sunrise, we suspect that this is not a habit for them.
“I took the plunge! said forward Matthew Tkachuk, surprised to see several young people with his jersey in the stands. It was cool. People are so passionate here.”
Even without the Canadian
As Danault recalled, however, the players do not have “control” over “the decisions that Gary [Bettman] takes”. Impossible for the center player to say if the fact that a total of 34,664 spectators traveled for the two matches could have an impact in the league offices.
“But the crowd answered the call, even without the presence of the Canadian,” he said. It was three good teams, that’s for sure, but it was full. And they didn’t play extras, they applauded. People were happy to be there, and it showed.”
Photo Didier Desbusschère
And in the absence of having a team back in the short, medium or long term, Quebec could gain a few new visitors in the coming months thanks to the good words of Jim Hiller. The friendly head coach seemed won over by the city.
During their stay, between practices, games and community activities, the Kings took advantage of the city. They notably dined at the Continental, very close to the Château Frontenac where they slept, as well as at the Atelier.
They also tasted – like some Panthers players – Ashton poutine, courtesy of Danault.
Photo by Jessica Lapinski
“The city is so beautiful,” Hiller said. We really enjoyed Old Quebec, we were able to visit several places. I’m going to tell everyone: you must visit Quebec if you have the chance.”
What they had to say
“It was a great experience. It’s preseason and sometimes you don’t want to have to fly all those hours for a match, but this one, one thing is certain, I’m going to remember it for a long time.” – Forward Aleksander Barkov, Panthers
Photo Didier Desbusschère
“We are lucky to play our last preseason game here. […] It is a superb amphitheater. I love this city and it’s great to be part of an event that people will enjoy so much.” – Panthers head coach Paul Maurice before Saturday’s game.
“I’m not surprised, honestly. The Quebec and Montreal fans are still strong. It shows the passion and love they have for hockey. The crowd answered the call.” – Forward Phillip Danault, Los Angeles Kings
“Any team that came here would have the support of the fans. It’s such a beautiful place, the players have been emphasizing it since we arrived. There is a special atmosphere, a beautiful charm in Quebec. And at the hockey level, there is no more proof to be done. The interest is there.” – Assistant coach (and former Nordiques) Sylvain Lefebvre
Related News :