When the Montreal Canadiens signed defenceman Chris Campoli on Monday, the speculation was that Andrei Markov had suffered another setback.
Not so, said the Canadiens. It was strictly a depth move. It was also a very bad sign for 23-year-old Yannick Weber.
For the past three years, the Swiss blueliner has competed for a spot on the Canadiens defence. When he signed a two-year, one-way deal last summer, he was convinced he would finally get his chance. Wrong.
“It’s difficult, I won’t lie. Chris Campoli’s a good defenceman. He’s a solid guy and had a good year last year. I’m sure he’s going to help the team. For me it’s one more guy ahead of me. It’s a bigger challenge,” Weber said.
That’s putting it mildly. Instead of climbing the depth chart, Weber has inexplicably fallen off it.
He practiced all week as a winger on the fourth line. When the Canadiens close out their pre-season schedule tomorrow night, he’ll be in the lineup as a forward.
“With all the injuries we have, it gives me an opportunity to be in the lineup. I did it last year and I had success. As long as I’m in the lineup I’m not gonna say anything. I felt good in practice on the wing. I played there in the playoffs. It’s not something new, it’s just a bigger challenge,” Weber explained.
During these trying times, Weber has turned to his mentor and compatriot, Mark Streit for advice and counsel.
“I talked to Mark Streit the other day. It was a long phone call. He was in this situation before (with Montreal). He told me to continue to work hard and not get discouraged. He’s a perfect example that good things can come of this. Look at him now; he’s the captain of his team. He’s been a tremendous help.”
Weber scored one goal and 11 points in 41 regular season games last season.
Notes: Carey Price will play the full 60 minutes against the Lightning. … Defenceman Andrei Markov (knee) will meet with team doctors on Friday to assess his progression and the course of action moving forward. No timetable has been set for his return. … Forward Max Pacioretty missed practice on Friday for family reasons. He will be in the lineup on Saturday vs. Tampa Bay.