Photo credit: All Habs / NHL
Laval Rocket veteran Alex Belzile, 34, remains hopeful of returning to the Montreal Canadiens and shares an inspiring message with Kent Hughes and Martin St-Louis.One thing is certain: Alex Belzile has never been the type to give up, and his return to Laval this fall proves it. Belzile was placed on waivers for the purpose of a loan to the Rocket at the end of Canadiens camp.
Despite being 34 years old (I know that’s not that old, but for a hockey player it’s the golden age…), the Quebec forward still has the same passion he had at the start of his career and truly wants to return to the NHL-especially with the Tricolore.
In an interview with TVA Sports, the veteran was very clear… he doesn’t want to be seen as a player nearing the end of his career, but rather as an example of perseverance.
Alex Belzile refuses to give up on his Montreal Canadiens dream
Belzile mentioned that he was not ready at all to give up on that dream when asked about the possibility of never playing in the NHL again. I love his mindset.
In his opinion, everything is still possible as long as he keeps performing and helping the Laval Rocket win.
He has already recorded several 40+ point seasons in the American Hockey League (56 last season), and his stint with the Canadiens in 2022-2023 left a mark on fans with his energy and leadership.
This year, with the Rocket, he wants to prove to Kent Hughes and Martin St-Louis that he can still be useful in Montreal.
“I’m not ready at all to give up on that. Zero.
I’m still highly motivated. I see that the guys around me are full of talent, but I consider myself just as good.
I’m looking for a call-up. Everyone has a different path. I don’t see myself as any worse than during my best pro season last year. I don’t see why things wouldn’t go well this year.
You never know when the phone might ring. It’s often when you least expect it that it does. You have to be ready.”
– Alex Belzile, via TVA Sports
I have to say, personally, I love the confidence. I don’t find it “cocky” or arrogant at all.
It simply shows how much Belzile still believes in his dream, even as the years go by.
In addition to being a model of hard work, he’s also a role model for the young Rocket players.
I think that kind of mentality does wonders within the organization.
In my opinion, I believe a call-up to Montreal isn’t impossible. It’s certain that his age doesn’t help him and that the competition is fierce, but Belzile perfectly embodies the team spirit and resilience that the Canadiens are trying to build.
You never know! One thing’s for sure-it’s hard not to wish him the chance to fulfill his dream of playing with the Canadiens again.
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‘I Consider Myself Just As Good’: Alex Belzile Sends Clear Message to Kent Hughes After Waiver Placement
Do you think Alex Belzile will be called up to play in the NHL this season?