New Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki already lands in controversy

On Monday, the Montreal Canadiens announced the appointment of the 23-year-old Ontario native Nick Suzuki as the team’s captain.

It didn’t take long for controversy to emerge as now Suzuki is being urged by several of Quebec’s major party leaders to learn French to connect with fans.

Coalition Avenir Québec leader François Legault said the Habs made an “excellent choice” as he described Suzuki as one of the team’s best players, before adding that the young centre now has to learn French.

Legault was not the only one to make the demand as soon followed the comments of Liberal Leader Dominique Anglade and Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon. The latter described Suzuki as a “very good choice” for captain but added that it is important for the Habs captain to learn French because the position involves a bond with a Quebec fan base that has supported the team for generations. Anglade commented that it would be a good thing if Suzuki learned French, adding that living in Quebec is an opportunity to learn the language.

Before the party leaders commented his nomination, Suzuki said that “It’s a true honor for me and a privilege” to become the Canadiens’ captain.

“This team’s headed in a great direction, and I couldn’t be more excited to be the captain and represent the team. It means a lot, just to see the respect the management, teammates, (and) coaches have for me. I know it’s a big role, but I think I’m ready for it.”

Last season in all 82 games, Suzuki showed strong signs of leadership, leading the Canadiens in scoring with 21 goals and 40 assists for 61 points.

But only in Montreal words speak louder than actions - en français s’il vous plaît.