Habs News: Montreal Canadiens, NHL, Jordan Harris, Jake Allen, Phil Danault, Michael Pezzetta, Michael McNiven, Marc Bergevin

ROCKET SPORTS MEDIA | MONTREAL, QC. — This is your one-stop destination every week day for your Canadiens news capsule. Here are your Habs Headlines!

Jordan Harris Explains Choice

Canadiens prospect Jordan Harris will not be in Montreal for training camp this September. In March, with his third NCAA season having been completed, it was reported that Harris had declined an offer from Marc Bergevin to join the Canadiens in what would have been a path similar to Cole Caufield, who was added to the roster when his NCAA season was over.

Following discussion with the team and his family, Harris opted to return to Northeastern University for his senior year in 2021-22 where he will serve as captain for the Huskies. The Canadiens announced that they fully supported Harris’ decision. Yet some in the media peddled a narrative that Harris had turned his back on the organization.

Harris Sets the Record Straight

In a recent interview with TVA Sports, Harris emphatically maintained his commitment to the Canadiens and offered an explanation for his choice.

“I have always been aware of how lucky I would have been to join the Canadiens organization this year,” said Harris. “To be drafted by this team is, believe me, a privilege that I am far from taking for granted. But at the point where I am in my academic and athletic journey, I cannot make a decision on a whim. I have to consider all the factors.”

The 21-year-old continued saying, “Graduating from Northeastern University means a lot to me and I wanted to finish what I started. I was also named captain of this team and I have boundless respect for all my teammates and coaches. I see my association with the Huskies as a commitment. There is also the hockey aspect. From my point of view, this fourth season in the NCAA will serve me to improve the little details of my game that bother me. I know deep down that I’ll be a better player when the moment for the NHL finally rolls around.”

Jake Allen’s Charity Event

Program 34, a foundation established by Canadiens backup goaltender Jake Allen has organized an annual event in Fredericton, New Brunswick. On Wednesday, Allen met for an hour with minor hockey kids for a Q & A and autograph signing.

On Thursday, the fifth Jake Allen Classic takes place at Kingswood Park Golf Course. The fundraising event is in support of an outdoor pediatric play space at Horizon Health.

Thanks for coming and bringing the questions!! @34jallen had his work cut out for him! #kidsqa #program34 pic.twitter.com/HuAZRApUtD

— Program 34 (@Program_34) August 11, 2021

The Press Zone – Montreal

Our sister podcast The Press Zone – Montreal takes on Laval signings, the new AHL playoff format and more. Don’t forget to subscribe!

Phil Danault in L.A.

Former Canadiens forward Phil Danault has arrived in Los Angeles after signing a six-year, $33-million contract with the Kings as an unrestricted free agent in July. Danault and his wife Marie are in L.A. to meet with team officials, have a tour of the facilities and to find a new house.

“I still think I have lots and lots to give and L.A. was seeing that in myself as well,” said Danault to the LA Times. “That’s what I liked too. They were seeing me the way I see me.”

Phillip Danault and Marie-Pierre Fortin explore their new home.

Read @LATimes story.

— LA Kings (@LAKings) August 11, 2021

Canadiens Connection podcast

Current Habs topics were discussed on this week’s episode of the Canadiens Connection. Listen, share and subscribe!