For months, whispers have been circulating around the hockey world about a certain Montreal Canadiens captain and his burning ambitions. The anticipation has only grown, especially after a candid post-game interview that left fans and analysts buzzing with speculation.

What is driving Nick Suzuki’s relentless pursuit this season? Why does he seem more determined, more focused, and more explosive on the ice than ever before? There’s a story unfolding—one that stretches from the rinks of Montreal to the international stage, and it’s filled with personal challenges, fierce competition, and a dream that refuses to fade.

Suzuki’s journey has been anything but ordinary; from heartbreaks and setbacks to record-breaking performances, he’s quietly built a case for himself as one of hockey’s most intriguing figures. Now, with the stakes higher than ever and his eyes set on a goal that could define his career, every move he makes is being watched and analyzed.

But what exactly did Suzuki say that sent shockwaves through the hockey community? And how has he responded to past disappointments to put himself in the spotlight? The answers may surprise you—and they reveal a side of Suzuki you’ve never seen before.

Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki, Sidney Crosby and Brad Marchand (team Canada)

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

For several months now, Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki hasn’t hidden his goal – he wants to represent Canada on the biggest international stage.

On Monday night, after the Sabres game, when asked about his ambitions, Suzuki was very direct.

Habs captain Nick Suzuki yesterday on Team Canada:

“I want to be on that team. It was a great experience in Calgary (at the orientation camp) just getting to meet everybody. I just wanna have the best start that I could, try to put my name in the hat for that team. I just try to do my best out there.”

– Nick Suzuki via Habs On Reddit

With those words, Suzuki sent a very clear message – he wants to be in Milan for the 2026 Olympic Games.

Nick Suzuki wants to prove he deserves his spot with Team Canada

After being left out during last winter’s Four Nations Face-Off, it’s fair to say Suzuki responded in the best way – on the ice.

In fact, toward the end of the season, he collected 37 points in 26 games, the fifth-highest total in the NHL during that stretch.

Including his performance this season he now ranks first in the NHL in points since the Four Nations tournament.

As reported by Radio-Canada, he also admitted that the competition for a spot on Team Canada will be very intense.

“I think I have a pretty good chance. Considering how they won the Four Nations Face-Off, someone’s spot will have to be taken.”

And he added with a confidence I love:

“It’s the toughest team to make in hockey, but I’m excited for the challenge.”

The Canadiens’ captain also plans to lean on his expanded role in Montreal to stand out.

For example, his use on the penalty kill is very important to his chances of making Team Canada.

“It’s something I’ve always done and that I love doing. If I can do it even more, it’ll make me an even more complete player.” – Nick Suzuki

I really hope to see him make the team – I think he absolutely deserves it!