Ray Lalonde, former vice-president of marketing for the Montreal Canadiens and a well-known sports business expert, is known for his direct and often cutting analysis.
Having played a leading role in managing the CH brand, he is familiar with the internal workings of the organization.
But lately, Lalonde has not been shy about criticizing Geoff Molson’s management, particularly regarding the exorbitant prices at the Bell Center and what he perceives as a disconnect between the team and its fans.
“Geoff Molson needs to stop treating fans like cash cows. A $15 beer and a $7 hot dog is indecent when the team isn’t performing well. »
“The current model is outdated. Look at what Mercedes-Benz Stadium is doing in Atlanta: $5 beers and $2 hot dogs. Not only are fans coming back in greater numbers, but they’re spending more because they feel respected. Why not take inspiration from it? »
“Geoff Molson seems to forget that Canadiens fans deserve more than an expensive and inaccessible show. Hockey here is a religion, not a luxury. »
Those comments resonated with many fans frustrated by the team’s high prices and disappointing performance earlier this year.
But Molson, true to his style, did not choose to respond in the same tone. He preferred a much more impactful and meaningful response: on the ice.
Not only is the CH on fire and finding itself at the gates of the series.
But instead of stooping to a public debate or responding verbally to these criticisms, Geoff Molson chose to do it differently.
His response was direct, merciless, and above all filled with a generosity that left no doubt about his deep intentions.
In Quebec, during the inauguration of the fifteenth outdoor skating rink with artificial ice offered by the Canadian to the cities of Quebec, Geoff Molson was beaming.
As Réjean Tremblay points out:
“Geoff has every right to smile and be proud. This commitment by the Canadian to the communities of Quebec is a tremendous achievement.
In addition, he gives back what hockey gives him by enriching it. The symbol is powerful. » (credit: Punching Grace).
These ice rinks, established in several cities, are not only sports infrastructures. They represent a real desire to give back to the community and build a future for young people, regardless of their economic situation.
Tremblay, with his inimitable style, said it himself:
“There will always be those who say that it is tax deductible, that it is good for the image and marketing of Holy Flannel…
The CH needs these fifteen ice rinks to sell tickets as much as a page of advertising in the Chibougamau parish weekly. Well done… and let’s enjoy it. »
Geoff Molson didn’t just react symbolically: he hit where it counts. These rinks, accessible free of charge to all, are much more than a one-off gesture.
They allow young people to learn about hockey, strengthen the social fabric of communities and embody the fundamental values of the sport.
As Tremblay points out with a touch of sarcasm, these rinks seem much more efficient than certain public institutions:
“In any case, the rinks in Geoff work better than health care, the application of Justice, the maintenance of roads and infrastructure and the entire education system. »
-By investing in this infrastructure, Geoff Molson responded to criticism brilliantly, showing that his commitment goes far beyond the economic considerations of the Bell Centre.
His message is clear: the Montreal Canadiens are not just a hockey team, it is an institution deeply rooted in the Quebec community.
To those who criticize him, his response is implacable: rather than defending himself with words, he acts. And it acts where it matters most: among young people, families, and hockey fans who deserve to see their passion for this sport enriched by concrete actions.
Tremblay says it with humor:
“Geoff as Prime Minister!!! »
And why not, in fact? With such strong actions and such powerful symbols, Geoff Molson proves that he understands the needs of Quebecers better than many politicians.
Ray Lalonde was right on one point: actions speak louder than words. And on this occasion, Geoff Molson did much more than respond.
He scored an unanswered goal, a gesture of generosity which reminds us why hockey is, and will remain, the people’s sport.
Geoff Molson walks on water. Not only is the team performing at an exceptional level, but it now benefits from invaluable public support, that of media sponsor Réjean Tremblay.
In sport, nothing silences the disgruntled like performance on the ice. And this season, the Canadian is simply on fire. Young talents are shining, victories are piling up, and enthusiasm is at its peak.
Critics of the high prices at the Bell Centre? They disappear like snow in the sun. After all, when your team wins and puts on a show worthy of the biggest nights of hockey, fans are willing to pay to witness it.
The Bell Center is packed, the fans are electrified, and the profits naturally follow. Molson didn’t even need to lower its prices: the quality of the product on the ice did all the work.
But Geoff Molson’s revenge does not stop there. By obtaining the public approval of Réjean Tremblay, he ensured a solid position in Quebec public opinion.
Tremblay, with his unparalleled influence in the media, not only praised Molson’s community initiatives, but also elevated him to the status of an almost political leader.
When a figure as respected as Tremblay compares you favorably to the Quebec political system, you can be sure that public opinion is on your side.
The complaints about the prices? Swept away. Criticisms of his management? Dissipated.
With a team on fire and community initiatives praised by all, Molson has demonstrated that he knows how to perfectly manage the dual role of owner of the Canadiens and social leader.
The 15 rinks offered across Quebec are not just a symbol: they are a concrete gesture that restores hockey to its popular essence.
With the blessing of godfather Tremblay, he is now “safe” in public opinion. No matter what his detractors say in the future, Geoff Molson has proven that he is a leader capable of meeting expectations on all fronts.
Molson’s revenge is twofold, but above all, it is total.
Ray Lalonde and his critics may well return to the charge, but this time, they will have to face an owner in full possession of his means, supported by a successful team, happy fans and a strong ally in the media.
Geoff Molson didn’t just score a goal. He has just completed a hat trick.
