Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
Brendan Gallagher is now in his 14th NHL season, all with the Montreal Canadiens. While he loves the city, he recently admitted that these years haven’t always been easy.
Brendan Gallagher’s Tough Challenges
What was hardest for the veteran forward wasn’t the pressure of playing in Montreal, but rather the criticism he faced about his contract.
We all know Gally was rewarded by Marc Bergevin in 2020 with a hefty six-year deal worth $6.5 million per season.
It didn’t take long before that contract was questioned and people started saying Gallagher had become a burden for the organization.
His personal performances didn’t help quiet the criticism either-during the first two seasons of his new deal (2021-2022 and 2022-2023), he collected only 24 and 14 points in 56 and 37 games, respectively.
Even though it was tough, the Edmonton native never lost faith in himself and never got discouraged.
“It was very hard!
But I was never worried.
I never doubted myself.
I always kept believing in myself, in what I’m capable of doing.
When I lose hope, that’s when I’ll stop playing hockey.”
– Brendan Gallagher
Things have since turned around, and since the 2023-2024 season, the 33-year-old veteran seems to have regained his form.
Seasons of 31 and 38 points over the last two years and fewer injuries have restored his confidence.
Gally is also off to a great start in the 2025-2026 campaign, with 5 points in 6 games to show for it.
Beyond the points, he’s playing inspired hockey that seems to energize his linemates.
Even though last season brought back the old Brendan, it wasn’t without its challenges.
The passing of his mother, who had been battling cancer since 2021, combined with the birth of his daughter, brought a whirlwind of emotions.
He admitted that losing his mother was especially difficult for him.
“For the first time in my life, hockey wasn’t the only thing that mattered.
My body started struggling during the season, and it took me some time to get back into the same shape, honestly.”
– Brendan Gallagher
Thankfully, he’s found happiness in his family with his wife and child.
He also admitted he’s still learning how to adjust and manage his priorities.
Becoming a father has been a major step in his life.
“You need a good team!
With my wife, I think we make a very good one-mostly thanks to her.”
– Brendan Gallagher
With Carey Price‘s contract off the books and the salary cap rising, his deal is becoming less and less of a burden for the organization.
The fact that number 11 is playing good hockey again also helps fans accept it more easily.
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‘It Was Very Hard’: Brendan Gallagher Gets Real About His Struggles in Montreal
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