Pride on the ground | The Journal of Montreal

Dad’s hugs, mom’s kisses, brothers’ handshakes, sisters’ hugs. Since the dawn of time, the tradition of waiting for each player to hear his name called has been around since the dawn of time. Except Jack Hughes.

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The Northeastern University forward, who was taken 51st overall by the Los Angeles Kings on Friday, had to wait until he was on the court to receive congratulations from his father.

Abba Kent, Canada’s general manager, was waiting for his son near the stairs leading to the team tables, along with Martin St-Louis.

“He came to congratulate me. It was real Cold “In this auction he introduced the young man who became the first tag of the Kings.

To encourage, support, congratulate and celebrate him, that’s the most the Habs’ GM could do for his son in these two days.

“Despite the test, he was clear with me. My father said he would avoid drawing me at any cost,” the center player said.

Avoid pressure

Hughes wanted to spare his son unnecessary additional pressure on a market that was already suffocating enough.

“Personally, it wouldn’t have bothered me. It wouldn’t have changed anything for me, said the young man with the fullness of his 18-year-old self. The only thing that matters to me is playing in the NHL. Montreal, Los Angeles or somewhere else. »

That didn’t stop members of the Canadiens’ management from rising to congratulate Kent Hughes upon hearing the Kings announced their selection.

Strange talks

No, there is nothing ordinary about being the son of a general manager. The content of the discussions leading up to the auction is not unlike that of a father and his son around the table.

“Even if he wasn’t a general manager, it wouldn’t have been a casual conversation,” Jack said, recalling that his father had previously been a players’ agent. He prepared me for the draft by telling me not to expect the draft to exceed my expectations. »

“He explained to me how it works and how crazy it can be at times. He advised me to enjoy the moment and sit back and wait for what will happen. »

Another unusual moment is when the head coach of a rival team shakes your hand in front of your own coach.

St. Louis, second father

It should be remembered that one of the CH driver’s sons, Jack Hughes and Ryan St-Louis, grew up together in the American development program. They are also teammates with the Northeastern Huskies in Boston.

“At times in the last couple of years, Martin has been like a second father,” she explained.

“He was not drafted, despite everything, he became the player we know. I received good advice from him. Besides, it is easy to learn about hockey if my father and Martin surround you. »