Last season, an embarrassing episode made the walls of the Bell Centre shake, to the point of giving Geoff Molson cold sweats.
What was supposed to be a spectacular opening ceremony turned into a total fiasco, so much so that one furious fan took it out on the owner of the Montreal Canadiens, accosting Molson to make his frustration felt amidst the general malaise.
Ouch. The discomfort was immense, and all of Montreal seemed to feel the discomfort. You can see Molson’s shame when he speaks to Margaret Bélanger.
This season, the betting is on: it seems clear that this kind of situation will not be repeated. Geoff Molson, looking for redemption, took the lead and flew to Vegas to take inspiration from the Golden Knights, known for their grandiose spectacles.
What surprised everyone, however, was the reaction of TVA Sports. For the first time in its history, the broadcaster usually conciliatory towards the CH had criticized, in passing, Geoff Molson and the organization.
An unexpected turn in the world of Quebec media. Indeed, TVA Sports literally threw the opening presentation at the Bell Centre under the bus, calling the event unworthy of an organization of this caliber.
It was unthinkable. The broadcaster, who is closely linked to the team, finally dared to publicly criticize what was an open secret for the fans: the ceremony was a real disaster.
This turnaround foreshadowed a break between the CH and Quebecor, suggesting that NHL hockey will not return to TVA Sports after June 2026.
TVA Sports’ now more outspoken attitude is a sign that times are changing behind the scenes in the media. They even criticized some ceremonies that they themselves had broadcast, a clear sign that complacency is over. A new era seems to be on the horizon.
The bitter failure of this ceremony highlighted a flagrant lack of investment on the part of the Canadiens towards their fans.
The usually impeccable Michel Lacroix seemed lost, making mistakes in the names to be announced, while the players desperately searched for their place on the ice. It was an interminable moment of unease.
Criticism came from all sides, not only from the media, but also from fans on social media. A ticket for nearly $200, a hot dog for $6 and a beer for $16: the exorbitant prices contrasted cruelly with the lack of spectacle.
The fans, often called the best in the league, deserved much better. One fan even said on Twitter that the presentation of the farm club, the Laval Rocket, was much more impressive.
The final blow came from a father, who lamented having spent a large part of his budget to offer his children an opening experience that ended in great disappointment.
This resounding malaise echoed throughout the Montreal hockey community, fueling resentment.
However, TVA Sports, in an unprecedented burst of transparency, was able to raise its voice and denounce this blunder. Bravo to them for having “worn their pants” and highlighted this flagrant lack of class on the part of the Canadiens.
Geoff Molson has his work cut out for him. This season, the expectations are high. It’s time for him to restore the reputation of this great organization.
At least he didn’t hide from the cameras. We have to give him credit for having the courage to admit his mistakes.
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