Brian Gionta gives important advice to Captain Nick Suzuki, and looks back on his time in Montreal

"I would tell him to enjoy it. He has to vibrate to the rhythm of this city and his responsibilities," mentioned the American. Nick doesn't have to change as a person. If he was given the title of captain, it was because of his qualities as a leader and as a man. He has earned the respect of his teammates, the organization and the fans." - Brian Gionta

"I think he'll stay himself as he seems like a very intelligent young man. He also knows Montreal, he's been playing there for three years. He has tamed his environment and he also understands how important this team is to the people. He also understands the interactions with the media. Even though he's young, he has experience in this market."-Brian Gionta

"Yeah, I thought it was really special. I knew the history of this team. The Habs are not like any other market in the NHL. I wasn't at the level of the great players in the organization like Jean Beliveau, Maurice Richard or Guy Lafleur, but I took the role to heart. I wanted to represent the team well. I loved my talks with the fans on the street in Montreal. I carried that letter with a lot of pride. I wanted to give back to the city." - Brian Gionta

I've always kept an open mind. With my wife, we wanted to experience the culture of Montreal and Quebec. I wanted to live an immersion. Before I became the captain, I had hired a French teacher who came to the house once a week for the family. I tried to learn it, I put effort into it. For me, it was a sign of respect. I would say little words or short sentences. It was a sign of respect and politeness. Sometimes it's just saying thank you."

"You win the hearts of the fans even more by exchanging simple words. I advise Suzuki to put some effort into it. Will he become bilingual? I don't know. But if he says he already wants to tackle it, I think that's very smart of him. He respects the population where he practices his profession," said Gionta.

"My kids went to a French daycare and they talked to friends in the neighbourhood in French. It always made me happy" - Brian Gionta