Joe Sakic's early years with the Quebec Nordiques were challenging as he didn't speak French — but it didn't affect him much on or off the ice.
For a non-French-speaking Canadian playing in the heart of French Canada, Joe Sakic was somewhat of an odd man out.
Although he didn't speak the language of the home province for the Quebec Nordiques, he spoke the universal language on the ice — scoring points. He wasn't hindered by the language barrier.
"But I don't think it has been that difficult for me. A lot of people speak English and try to help you out," the Burnaby, British Columbia native told The Hockey News' Eric Duhatschek in 1991. "And the longer you're there, the more words you pick up."
Former coaches and teammates said Sakic was a soft-spoken, normal guy who was fun to be around, according to Duhatschek in the article from the March 15, 1991 issue.
For a shy, reserved player off the ice, Sakic spoke volumes on the ice. He was in his third NHL season, 21 years old and talking about how the team could turn it around with the young players.
The issue's main story may be on Sakic, but other features include a breakdown on the disappointing freshman season for Owen Nolan and a look into Guy Lafleur's final season. Outside of the Nordiques, there's an article addressing alcohol issues within the NHL and how some teams were considering moving to new cities.
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