Earlier this summer, after the Florida Panthers raised their first Stanley Cup in franchise history, one of their core defensemen, Brandon Montour, left via free agency to sign a long-term deal with the Seattle Kraken. In a recent discussion, Montour revealed that his path to Seattle almost took a different turn.
Montour, 30, who spent the last four years with the Florida Panthers, emphasized the significance of finding the right situation for both his career and his family. Despite mutual interest from the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montour ultimately chose the Kraken, valuing the stability and security the long-term deal in Seattle offered his family.
Montour's decision to prioritize his family's well-being is commendable. He acknowledged the importance of not just his professional satisfaction but also the comfort and happiness of his loved ones. Although returning to Southern Ontario with the Maple Leafs was an option, the choice to join Seattle was made with his family's best interests in mind, providing a sense of security and stability.
This insight into Montour's decision-making process highlights a side of professional sports that fans often overlook: the human element. Players are not just athletes; they are individuals with families and personal lives that deeply influence their career choices. Montour's story serves as a reminder of the vulnerability and humanity behind the game, showing that decisions on where to play are not made in isolation but with the broader context of life and loved ones in mind.
Source: Blade of Steel
Seattle Kraken's Brandon Montour admits where he almost signed
POLL | ||
Where should Brandon Montour have signed? | ||
Florida | 18 | 27.7 % |
Toronto | 17 | 26.2 % |
Seattle | 21 | 32.3 % |
Other(suggest in comments) | 9 | 13.8 % |
List of polls |