Laraque frustrated in part-time role
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
SPORTSNET.CA
Montreal Canadiens forward Georges Laraque would never ask for a trade, but his lack of playing time just may dictate one.
“I would never ask for something like that (a trade) at this time of the year,” Laraque said when asked about the possibility of a deadline deal. “I want to make it work but at at the same time I’m a hockey player and I need to be playing.”
Injuries have limited Laraque’s playing time this season, but the veteran is now healthy and frustrated with his lack of playing time.
“It’s the most frustrated I’ve been in my career. Last time I was this frustrated was when I was a rookie, it was understandable but I’m an established veteran and in terms of my role, I play hard and I give everything I have when I play,” Laraque said. “I fight for my teammates and everything I do for respect. So yeah, it’s frustrating.”
Georges Laraque signed in Montreal with the understanding that he would play in a regular role.
The 32-year-old is familiar with changing uniforms at the league-imposed deadline, in 2008 Phoenix Coyotes traded Laraque to the Pittsburgh Penguins for Daniel Carcillo and a 3rd round selection in 2008. Laraque went on to play in a Stanley Cup final with the Penguins.
“I don’t know where everything is going right now, I haven’t been playing since I’ve been back and I would just assume that if my role isn’t required then I wouldn’t be surprised if they had to move me.”
Respected as one of the league’s best enforcers, Laraque is not about to sit by and watch a season pass without playing.
“Obviously I don’t want to be here if I’m going to play once in a while. Every player wants to play. I could just shut up and sit down and take the money but that’s not the type of guy I am. I’m a fierce competitor. I want to play, I want to compete.”