Carey Price has confirmed a rumor that is sure to get Montreal Canadiens fans talking for some time.
The Bell Centre torch really was supposed to be his this spring.
In an interview with veteran NHL journalist Dave Stubbs, the former goaltender opened up about several topics. One detail, however, is drawing particular attention: if the Canadiens had played just one more game this spring, Price would have carried the torch in front of the fans.
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Just imagine the scene. The Bell Centre on its feet, the most beloved Canadiens goaltender of his generation raising the torch one last time in front of a packed house. It would have been an unforgettable moment.
The Canadiens did not simply show up this spring. The club advanced all the way to the third round before falling to the Carolina Hurricanes. One additional game would have been enough to make Price’s ceremonial appearance a reality.
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Price remains fully invested in the Canadiens and their young goaltending future. He said he did not miss much of the team’s run during the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. He likes what he sees from the Habs. While acknowledging that winning in the spring is never easy, he believes this group is giving itself a legitimate chance.
A significant part of that optimism stems from the young goaltending duo of Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler. Price’s continued belief in the organization and its developing talent underscores how little his sense of belonging has changed.
As for the torch, it will have to wait. The feeling, though, is that this is only postponed—not canceled.