The dim glow of neon signs flickered across the crowded pub, casting shadows over the laughter and clinking glasses that filled the night. Montreal’s heartbeat pulsed behind the bar—hockey jerseys on the walls, echoes of old victories in the air. But for a handful of Canadiens stars, this evening was supposed to be a rare escape, a chance to unwind outside the relentless spotlight of the rink. Then, in an instant, the mood shifted. A smartphone appeared, its lens trained on Cole Caufield, Jakub Dobes, and Juraj Slafkovsky, capturing faces that quickly soured from relaxed to visibly annoyed.

The video, now spreading like wildfire across social media, has ignited a storm of outrage among fans and insiders alike. What was meant to be a private moment became public property, dissected and debated by thousands who have never walked a mile in the skates of a professional athlete. The footage is uncomfortable, not because of anything the players did, but because of the sharp intrusion—a fan shoving his phone into their faces, ignoring personal boundaries and basic respect.

The reactions have been swift and passionate. “Just saw a video of a rude fanboy filming Habs players hanging out in MTL as they look visibly annoyed,” one user posted, echoing the sentiments of many. “They’re just people too, and they’re friendly if you act just cool and give them their space and privacy.” It’s a simple plea, but one that seems increasingly lost in the age of viral content and instant fame.

For those who have ever encountered a Canadiens player at a neighborhood restaurant or local bar, the lesson is clear: these athletes are more than just the names on the back of a jersey—they’re individuals, with lives and relationships that extend far beyond the ice. The video is a stark reminder of the thin line between admiration and intrusion, and how quickly a friendly encounter can turn sour when respect is thrown aside.

Another voice chimed in under the viral clip, summing up the frustration perfectly: “DON’T shove a phone in their face. Tell them sorry to interrupt but if they could an autograph. Just be respectful.” It’s advice that should be common sense, but in this moment, it feels revolutionary.

The outrage isn’t just about one video—it’s about the culture that allows these invasions to happen. It’s about the expectation that public figures owe us constant access, even when they’re off the clock, even when they’re with loved ones. For Caufield, Dobes, Slafkovsky, and countless other players, the boundaries between public and private life are often blurred, and every outing is a potential spectacle.

As the debate rages on, one question hangs in the air: How far is too far when it comes to fandom? Is it possible to celebrate our heroes without crossing the line into disrespect?

This incident has sparked a crucial conversation about privacy, respect, and the true meaning of being a fan. Read on to discover the full story behind the viral pub video, the reactions from the hockey community, and what we can learn about giving our sports stars the space they deserve.

Photo of Cole Caufield and Juraj Slafkovsky

Photo credit: Habsfanatics/NHL

There is a video currently circulating widely on the web, and it’s frustrating many Montreal Canadiens fans.

And I absolutely agree with those who consider this to be completely unacceptable.

“Just saw a video of a rude fanboy filming Habs players hanging out in MTL as they look visibly annoyed.

We’ve personally ran into Habs players at this neighbourhood pub. They’re just people too, and they’re friendly if you act just cool and give them their space and privacy.”

– HabsOnReddit

Very well said!

If I were in the shoes of the Habs players in that video, I would have lost my patience too, and I would have been annoyed.

Unacceptable gesture from a Montreal Canadiens fan toward team players, including Cole Caufield, Jakub Dobes, and Juraj Slafkovsky

Here is the video in question, right here:

Here is another excellent comment under the video, which sums up the situation very well:

“Just my thoughts and hopefully what I’d do. DON’T shove a phone in their face. Tell them sorry to interrupt but if they could an autograph. Just be respectful”

That’s really the basics.

I think this video is simply a good reminder of the importance of respecting players outside the rink, respecting their privacy and their personal space (when you run into them in a restaurant, for example), and especially when they’re with their wives/partners.