Eric Staal reflects on his special time with the Montreal Canadiens

The 37-year-old veteran spoke to the media, following his appointment. He talked about his time with the Tricolore, which he described as "special".

Eric Staal was part of a very successful edition of the Habs, unlike the current one. He will try to take his experience from last year with the Habs to Beijing and bring it to the Canadian team.

One of his two assistant captains, David Desharnais, is also a former member of the Montreal Canadiens. Staal had nothing but good words for the Quebecer as well.

Staal's time with the Habs lasted only 42 games, including the playoffs, but he has fond memories of it. He is one of the many veterans and/or leaders who left the Montreal organization during the summer. We don't talk about it much, but his departure was a big loss in Dominique Ducharme's dressing room.

After all, experience and quality leadership cannot be bought.