Friedman: Bergevin was “considering walking away” from Habs, as well

In case you missed the shocking news earlier today, Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price has taken a leave of absence from the team while voluntarily taking part in the league's player assistance program.

It's unclear when Price will return and what exactly this means, but it's worth noting that in the past players have used the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program to help them with drug and/or alcohol addiction problems.

Here's the official statement from the NHL and the NHLPA regarding Price:

NEW YORK/TORONTO (Oct. 7, 2021) – The National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) announced today that goalie Carey Price of the Montreal Canadiens will be away from the team while voluntarily taking part in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program.

Price himself has not yet spoken to the media or made any sort of update to his social media accounts, but Habs GM Marc Bergevin conducted an emotional interview this afternoon where he reiterated the team's support from Price and for his family during this difficult time.

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman was on the debut episode of The Jeff Marek Show on Sportsnet today and the two long-time colleagues obviously spent some time discussing Price and what his decision will have on the team, but it was this comment from Friedman on Bergevin that's really making headlines in Montreal: 

"I think that job has taken its toll on him too...I know last year he was considering walking away at the end of the season and not finishing this year, he was burned out at times, they went to the finals, kind of rejuvenated him a bit".

Friedman is essentially reporting that Bergevin was ready to quit his job as Habs GM last season, but that the team's run to the Stanley Cup Final prevented that. That's.... not entirely surprised when you consider that during his press conference today Bergevin did said that there are no plans for him to negotiate a new contract with the team, despite this being the final season on his current deal. Rather, Bergevin and the team will see how things play out this season and both sides will make a decision on his future with the team next offseason. But, reading between the lines a bit here, you have to wonder if Bergevin has already made up his mind?