The NHL Recognized the Captain

Nick Suzuki is having a good season. Some feel he has more to give but I don’t know about that. He’s currently on pace for an 84-point season. But we’ll get back to that. For now, the NHL voted him the Third Star of the Week!

Last week he had 3-4-7, second-best in the league. He had two three-point games in each of the first two outings. Suzuki was a big reason for the four-game winning streak and he’s averaging more than a point-per-game which is getting into the star player level.

He leads the Canadiens in assists with 43, and that’s what he is - - a playmaker. His 33-goal season a year ago isn’t going to be the norm for this pivot. His 20 power-play points lead the team too. He’s earning his keep in my estimation.

Suzuki is a clutch player. His four overtime goals are leading the team but Cole Caufield is catching up so that will be a fun competition as the season rolls on. Let’s not forget he’s tied for the team lead in game-winning goals with five. 

Suzuki is 25 and the Canadiens have him in his prime. Top line centers don’t grow on trees and he holds his own. He may get a bit better too. There’s still some room for him to grow in the league. 

It’s easy for me to predict that next season will be his best. I can feel it and if there’s a bit more talent surrounding him on the power play, that’s what probably gets it done.