Oilers’ Connor McDavid reveals why he loves playing in Montreal

Connor McDavid has played in every modern-day NHL arena, but few appear to match the experience he gets at Montreal’s Bell Centre.

During an interview with Felix Seguin at the recent NHL Player Media Tour in Las Vegas, the Edmonton Oilers captain explained why he enjoys playing in Montreal.

“It always seems like an exciting game when we’re there,” McDavid said. “The energy of the building is there. It always feels intense. Those are the games I love to play, honestly.”

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The superstar also recalled representing Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off in Montreal. “It was special to play there for Canada,” McDavid said, highlighting the different feeling of receiving support from the home crowd.

For McDavid, the atmosphere remains appealing even when he becomes the target.

“It’s nice to have the fans cheer for me there, but it’s also fun to play against (the Habs) and get the boos,” he said.

Connor McDavid embraces Montreal’s hockey culture

McDavid’s comments reflect the competitive environment created by Montreal’s fan base. The Canadiens have some of the most die-hard hockey fans in the NHL.

“It’s such a special building to play in,” he said. “It’s such a great hockey town. The way (the fans) love their Canadiens is amazing.”

That intensity can create a different challenge for visiting teams. Montreal’s younger core, led by Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky and Lane Hutson, has given the Canadiens more reason for optimism.

The Bell Centre atmosphere can matter most when a young Montreal roster faces elite opponents. The Canadiens can use crowd energy to pressure opponents early, while experienced stars such as McDavid understand how to turn that pressure into motivation.

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McDavid’s latest visit will come on Dec. 14, when Edmonton visits Montreal. The Oilers remain Stanley Cup contenders built around McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, while the Canadiens continue developing their young core.

So, the matchup offers more than another road game for McDavid. Montreal provides the intensity he seeks, whether the crowd cheers his name or fills the building with boos.

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