"Even though I was never told about the possibility of joining my country's junior team, I was trying to keep my place with the Canadiens. I always loved representing my country in international competitions, but I wanted to focus on my first season in the NHL. My goal is always to get better and move up in the lineup."
Slafkovsky finally closed the discussion in this way:
"Some believe I would have benefited from being dominant against players my age. Others believe it was better for me to continue my development by playing against men.
To this I say that I have full confidence in the team management to determine what is best for me. They are much smarter than I am at making those kinds of decisions."