New Documentary Series: Toujours Canadiens
Fans of the Montreal Canadiens now have reason to celebrate the addition of a new series to Crave’s offerings, going beyond the previously aired second season of The Rebuild: Inside the Montreal Canadiens. The fresh three-part documentary titled Toujours Canadiens spotlights three prominent players who have shaped the team’s history: Stéphane Richer, Chris Nilan, and Claude Lemieux.
Episode One: Stéphane Richer
The first episode, which debuted on September 23, centers on Stéphane Richer and delves deeply into his journey as a hockey player. For those who watched Richer during his prime in the 1980s, this segment promises to reignite cherished memories of his spectacular scoring feats with the Canadiens. Additionally, viewers will get an insider’s look at the trials he faced off the ice.
Richer does not hold back in sharing both the triumphs and tribulations of being a professional athlete, particularly the intense scrutiny he faced, including public speculations regarding substance issues and personal life challenges.
Reflecting on his era, he noted the lack of support for players dealing with mental health struggles before the NHL and NHLPA established a player assistance program in 1996—something he realized he could have greatly benefitted from earlier in his career.
Nostalgic Moments and Career Reflections
The episode also includes nostalgic moments such as Richer’s meeting with hockey icon Maurice Richard after he achieved the milestone of scoring 50 goals in a season, as well as fond recollections from his junior hockey days with the Granby Bisons, where he trained alongside the legendary Patrick Roy. Richer shares how their youthful ambition of making it to the NHL and winning the Stanley Cup came to fruition.
Viewers will gain insight into Richer’s mixed emotions surrounding his trades, particularly his move to the New Jersey Devils, which contrasted sharply with the spotlight of playing in Montreal. He eventually secured a Stanley Cup there but returned to Montreal amid challenges that highlighted the ups and downs of his career.
Interviews and Insights
The episode encompasses a wealth of interviews, featuring insights from Canadiens legends Serge Savard, Larry Robinson, Patrice Brisebois, and former New Jersey GM Lou Lamoriello. Overall, this segment is a compelling hour of storytelling that is not to be missed by any hockey enthusiast.
