The Montreal Canadiens have categorically refuted claims suggesting their players were instructed to remain confined to their hotel and keep their passports on hand during their recent trip to Minnesota. This assertion follows a report made by sports journalist Luc Gélinas, who alleged that the team was advised to limit their movements due to safety concerns while in the state.
Canadiens’ Strong Rebuttal
In a statement to The Independent, Chantal Machabée, Vice-President of Hockey Communications for the Canadiens, expressed her disbelief regarding Gélinas’ comments, labelling them as “fake news.” Machabée stated, “The problem is, it’s not true! I have no idea why the reporter said this; it’s simply not true,” emphasising the team’s commitment to transparency regarding their players’ safety.
Gélinas, a seasoned sports reporter with over 25 years of experience covering the Canadiens, claimed during a segment on Quebec radio station FM Charlevoix that players were advised to stay indoors and eat at the hotel rather than venture out. He further asserted that the team chose to remain in Buffalo for an additional night prior to their game against the Minnesota Wild to circumvent potential disturbances in the city.
NHL Weighs In
Brad Klein, Director of Corporate Communications at the NHL, backed the Canadiens’ denial, asserting that the reports regarding player safety measures were “not true.” Machabée clarified that the hotel had suggested players remain within a three-block radius, but there was no directive to carry passports. She explained that the decision to stay in Minnesota an extra night was part of a long-standing practice to allow players a good night’s rest before travelling to the next destination.
“It’s easier when you have a good night’s sleep than arriving in the next city at 2am,” she added, reinforcing the rationale behind their travel arrangements.
Context of Safety Concerns
These claims of heightened safety measures arise amid growing unease surrounding the treatment of international athletes and fans in Minnesota. Recent incidents, including the fatal shooting of two American citizens by federal agents, have sparked widespread protests and fear among the community. The escalating federal immigration crackdown has raised alarms, particularly following the detention of San Francisco Giants player Jung Hoo Lee at Los Angeles International Airport earlier this month, an event that prompted intervention from political figures such as Representative Nancy Pelosi.
Why it Matters
The Canadiens’ swift denial of safety concerns highlights a broader issue of athlete welfare amid increasingly stringent immigration policies and public safety fears. As international events unfold, the pressure on teams to ensure the safety of their players and staff becomes paramount. This incident not only reflects on the Canadiens’ integrity but also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between sports and the socio-political climate, demonstrating how external factors can impact even the most routine of professional engagements.
