Conference Call: Phillip Danault

MONTREAL - Centerman Phillip Danault took some time on Tuesday to chat with reporters.

The 27-year-old forward, who registered 13 goals and 47 points in 71 games, discussed everything from his "big brother" role with Nick Suzuki to his opinion regarding the future of the 2019-20 campaign.

Here are a few excerpts from his Q&A session.

Question from Chantal Machabée, RDS

A few days ago, Nick Suzuki mentioned that you were his role model and that he'd like to become a player like you, someone who plays well defensively and offensively. How do you feel when a young player considers you a role model, even if you're still fairly young yourself?

It's very flattering. I think that Nick is a very intelligent player. He sees the play really well at both ends of the ice. He was in his first season in the League, so it's definitely harder to be solid defensively. I see his potential, and it's very flattering to know that he sees my defensive potential on the ice. Nick was always a guy I took under my wing. When he arrived in Brossard, I wanted him to sit next to me. I asked the coach and he gave me the green light. We're always together. I see his offensive potential, and if he can continue to improve defensively he'll become a highly valued player in our market.

Questions from Eric Engels, Rogers Sportsnet

When you look back at the way you've developed over the last four or five years, how can you put it into perspective what it's meant to you to be a Montreal Canadien and that process? How would you say that being a Canadien has kind of influenced your work ethic as a guy who's from here, from Quebec?

I wouldn't say that Montreal influenced me to have a good work ethic because I always had a really good work ethic in my life. That's how I made my life in hockey as well, my name as well, too, work ethic defensively and offensively. That definitely helps with the fans, playing in Montreal, it gave me the extra desire to perform and to win when you play at the Bell Centre in front of them, especially because I'm from here. That's what I would say about that.

What has it meant to you to be a Montreal Canadien and how would you describe life as a Montreal Canadien? How have you enjoyed that experience?

For me to be a Montreal Canadien is a dream come true, to be honest. When you're young, you watch those big guys on TV, and it's always big on TV, and just like that I became a Montreal Canadien, so it's an honor. Obviously it's an indescribable feeling. Every time you put your skates on at the Bell Centre, it's something very special every night. Putting that jersey on, with the Montreal crest in front and my name on the back, it's really awesome. It's a dream come true, and I've really enjoyed playing for Montreal so far.

Questions from Jonathan Bernier, Le Journal de Montréal

The NHL is talking about different scenarios to get things going again, including one where players would be confined to one city for a few weeks or a few months. Can you envision being away from your family for about two months?

Honestly, I don't think it makes any sense to leave my family for around two months. I think teams that could go far into the playoffs won't like it, either. A team that reaches the Stanley Cup Final could be away from their loved ones for three to four months. That's not human. The League should make a decision, and I think the players will have something to say about it. I'm not sure that there'll be a favorable vote when it comes to leaving for two to three months.

Tweet from @phildanault: Restez �� la maison! Ensemble on va r��ussir!! Stay home, stay safe🙏🧡 pic.twitter.com/RLSXzi6VHk

What do you think is the most desirable and realistic scenario?

I'd say play the playoffs only. There are still 10 games left in the regular season. I don't think it would be very motivating for the teams who are already assured of a playoff spot. We'll have a break of two to three months. It would be tough. Otherwise, I'd say we just focus on next season. But I understand the scenario for the playoff teams. There are general managers who made moves, who traded first-round picks. I understand the desire to finish the season, but there are more important things in the world right now. We won't be the ones to decide. I think it will be difficult to start again. Honestly, I don't know a lot more than the reporters.

Question from Alexandre Gascon, Radio-Canada

Last week, Gallagher told us just how important it was for him to be in a winning environment and it was probably his priority. Do you see things the same way?

Absolutely. Winning is the most fun part of hockey, especially in Montreal. A lot of players dream about winning in Montreal. We know that it would be something incredible. My priority is to win, and to do it in Montreal.

Questions from Richard Labbé, La Presse

I was wondering, in terms of training, how long do you think you'd need in terms of a training camp before being able to play again?

That's hard to say. We're waiting to see what happens, so we don't really know. I had to let a few injuries heal up, so I took some time to rest. If we have to restart, I'd say a training camp that lasts at least three weeks.

Can you still train properly from home? Obviously, there isn't any ice. Can you train and be ready if the season resumes?

There's ice where we are. The lake is still frozen. Yes, it's possible for me to train, but we're still waiting. In my mind, my priority is to get ready for next season. I'm not thinking about coming back this season. I needed mental and physical rest. It was my priority when the NHL went on pause. I'm still very active, though. I ride the stationary bike, but I'm not lifting any big weights. I'm taking care of myself both mentally and physically.

Question from Raphaël Doucet, 91,9 Sports

You obviously want to play hockey, but do you some positives in spending time with your son?

Absolutely. It's time that I didn't have during the season. Shortly after he was born, I left for 16 straight days. We spent the summer together, but he was still being breastfed at that point. He wasn't doing much. This year, he started to walk. I'm really happy. I was there for his first steps. Those are memorable moments, even with everything going on right now.

Question from Martin McGuire, Cogeco Média

You have something really good going with Brendan Gallagher and Tomas Tatar. You were the top line on the team. Is that a winning situation for you?

We've had a lot of success together. We complement each other well. We all bring something different to the table. It creates sparks every night. It's no coincidence that we're one of the most consistent lines in the League at even-strength. It's great to have Gally and Tatar playing alongside me.