Canadiens' Veteran David Savard Makes Huge Announces About His Future

Montreal Canadiens defenseman David Savard revealed on Friday that he will retire following the playoffs.

According to TVA’s Renaud Lavoie, the 34-year-old informed Canadiens management of his decision several weeks ago. 

David Savard announces he will retire at the end of the Canadiens' playoff run pic.twitter.com/Unj6Axf8cc

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Savard recorded one goal and 15 points in 75 games this season while averaging 16:35 of ice time—his lowest since his first two NHL campaigns. Over his 14-year career, he appeared in 870 regular-season games with three different teams. 

After being drafted 94th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2009, he spent a decade with the franchise before a brief stint with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020-21.

These playoffs will mark Savard’s seventh and final pursuit of the Stanley Cup. His last postseason run came with the Lightning in 2021, when they defeated Montreal to secure back-to-back championships. He then signed with the Canadiens as a free agent that summer, providing veteran leadership to a young roster. This year’s playoffs will be Montreal’s first since their Finals appearance four years ago.

Known for his shutdown defense and shot-blocking prowess, Savard ranked eighth in the NHL this season with 180 blocked shots. Since his debut in 2011-12, he sits 13th all-time with 1,624 blocks.

With Savard’s departure, a spot opens up on Montreal’s blue line, potentially paving the way for David Reinbacher to secure a full-time NHL role. The fifth overall pick in 2023 missed six months after undergoing knee surgery during the preseason. 

Image - David Kirouac-Imagn