Canadiens New Captain Being Called Out For Not Speaking French

The Montreal Canadiens named Nick Suzuki their new team captain recently and it's certainly stirred the pot in the province of Quebec. Several politicians are now calling for Suzuki to learn the French language as they feel the captain of the team should have to be able to speak the local tongue.

BREAKING: Nick Suzuki is the new captain of the Montreal Canadiens pic.twitter.com/gU2bIkqt0H

— Kyle Bukauskas (@SNkylebukauskas) September 12, 2022

Nick Suzuki, 23, is Canadiens' 31st captain and youngest in club https://t.co/jaQuM1ZrEQ pic.twitter.com/6eSFlU7ttd

— Hockey Night in Canada (@hockeynight) September 12, 2022

The 23-year-old Suzuki did comment after the announcement, stating he's been taking classes and at this point is much better at reading it then speaking. According to reports:

Coalition Avenir Québec leader François Legault said the Habs made an “excellent choice,” describing the center as one of the team’s best players, before adding that Suzuki now has to learn French. Liberal Leader Dominique Anglade told reporters it would be a good thing if Suzuki learned French, adding that living in Quebec is an opportunity to learn the language. Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon 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.

Suzuki appeared in all 82 games last season, recording 21 goals and 61 points. The Canadiens look to get back on track in 2022-23.

Photo credit:  Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports