Fans get to see Jonathan Drouin for the first time in months!

Jonathan Drouin missed the entire Montreal Canadien’s run to the Stanley Cup final, which they ended up losing in five games to the Lightning in Tampa Bay. When meeting with reporters at the end of the season, GM Marc Bergevin offered an update on Drouin’s situation, stating that the forward was doing much better. 

Back in late April, the Canadiens announced that Drouin would take an indefinite leave of absence from the team for personal reasons. Teammates, including Phillip Danault, also a French-speaking player from the province of Quebec, had opened up about what might be hurting Drouin and how serious this is, speaking about bullying and mental health issues. 

It was clear that Drouin’s mental health needed a break from all of the pressure that has been placed on his shoulders.  Drouin has not played since April 21st against the Edmonton Oilers. During warm-ups of the next game, he was seen speaking with team trainers and did not return to take part in the contest. He has since missed Montreal’s last three games as he has dealt with a “non-COVID illness.” He spent all of this time, alone, in his hotel room… In 44 games this season, Drouin scored two goals and added 21 assists. He was even asked by a reporter how he felt about his lack of goals this year, and answered with frustration that there was another important column to his stat sheet, pointing out his 21 assists. 

While Bergevin mentioned that Drouin was feeling better, fans never got proof of his statement. Then, on Tuesday, a photo of Drouin was posted on social media, he who was seen at the Complexe Bell when the Canadiens practice. The tweet reveals how he is back training and wants to be ready for the 2021-22 season. 

Now, we cannot always tell from a photo how someone is doing, but the fact that Drouin allowed this image to be posted on social media appears like a positive sign. 

While we cannot say when Drouin will return to action, his name was mentioned a few times in trade chatter, especially when it comes to the Canadiens being interested in acquiring Jack Eichel from the Buffalo Sabres. 

We only hope that the Habs make the best decision for Drouin’s mental and keep hoping he is healthy and happy. 

Good to see you, Jo!