Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki is facing one of the most emotional moments of his young career following the unexpected death of his beloved grandmother. The 24-year-old star, who has become the face of the franchise, delivered a heartfelt message to teammates and fans this week, vowing to leave the team if a deeply personal promise to his late grandmother is not fulfilled.
According to sources close to Suzuki, his grandmother had a strong wish for him to bring pride to Montreal by helping lead the team to a Stanley Cup. But more personally, she hoped that the Canadiens would honor their legacy by staying connected to the values of unity, respect, and community — something she cherished deeply and reportedly asked Suzuki to uphold during their final conversations.
Speaking after the team’s morning skate, an emotional Suzuki said, “She always believed in this team, in what it stood for — not just winning games, but representing something bigger. If the team can’t live up to what she believed in, I don’t know if I have a place here anymore.”
Suzuki did not specify what exact steps he wants the organization to take, but those close to him suggest it may involve deeper community involvement and honoring traditions that resonate with the city’s diverse roots values his grandmother championed.
Team management has yet to comment publicly, but fans have rallied behind Suzuki online, flooding social media with support and memories of his grandmother’s appearances at games.
As the Canadiens push forward in the season, Suzuki’s emotional stance casts a powerful shadow. His commitment to his family’s legacy could inspire lasting change or lead to a shocking departure that would shake the franchise to it’s core.