Before the Habs-Senators game, TVA Sports featured a compelling interview with Renaud Lavoie, who spoke with the former minority owner of the Habs and current owner of the Senators.
The interview took place in Gatineau, just steps away from where the team’s new amphitheatre is planned. The scenic view is impressive, and as a local, I can attest that photos and videos don’t capture its true beauty.
Andlauer is eager for the project to be finished, though he emphasizes that it’s a long-term vision for future generations. He anticipates holding a first home game within five years, ideally against the Habs, a rivalry he feels is gaining momentum. He acknowledges that one pivotal player in this rivalry is Arber Xhekaj, who was once favored but is now less appreciated by Andlauer.
With humor, he shared with the TVA Sports reporter how the defender “frustrates him” and that he believes Xhekaj is underperforming. Andlauer is quite familiar with Xhekaj, having signed him when he was with the Hamilton Bulldogs in the OHL, where he held a leadership role.
Ironically, the former protégé has become a nuisance for his old mentor. Andlauer noted that a challenge directed at his star player, Tim Stutzle, wasn’t well received.
While discussing amphitheatre developments and the situation with Xhekaj, Andlauer admitted it was tough to part ways with the Canadiens, given his Montreal roots and cherished memories of icons like Guy Lafleur.
However, the chance to head his own team was an invaluable opportunity that he couldn’t pass up. His deep involvement suggests that the future looks promising for the Ottawa franchise. On TVA Sports, Patrick Lalime, who spent time in Ottawa, spoke with Jacques Martin and Chris Phillips, both of whom expressed excitement about the new leadership.
At the conclusion of the interview, Renaud Lavoie asked Andlauer whether he supports the idea of the Nordiques returning to Quebec City, to which he responded positively, drawing comparisons between his city and the nation’s capital.
In summary, the Ottawa Senators are experiencing a revitalization, and Renaud Lavoie’s interview sheds light on how Michael Andlauer is well-suited to help restore the team’s prominence.
