01/09/2026
The Story Behind The Piece. Growing up a loyal Toronto Maple Leafs fan, I was taught to hate the Montreal Canadiens. I soon learned to dislike them all on my own. Hate is a strong word, but somehow it feels acceptable—and harmless—when it comes to sports (in my opinion).
Over the years, I’ve painted Ken Dryden, Yvan Cournoyer, and even Boston Bruins great Phil Esposito—but I justified those choices because they were wearing Team Canada jerseys.
Recently, however, I chose to honour a Montreal Canadien purely for his extraordinary skill, talent, speed, and thrilling career. Guy Lafleur, who sadly passed away in 2022 at the age of 70, was a Canadien through and through. He was adored by the fans and played during the team’s dynasty years. Lafleur was the first player in NHL history to score 50 goals in six consecutive seasons, and to record 50 goals and 100 points in six consecutive seasons. I could go on…
It only felt right to honour him in his Habs jersey and to try to capture his speed and elegance on canvas. He may be the only Montreal Canadien I ever honour in this way—and I hope I’ve done him justice.