Tinordi and Beaulieu make successful debuts April 04, 2013 – Montréal, Québec

They may have been up for only a short period of time, but Montreal Canadiens 1^st rounders Nathan Beaulieu and Jarred Tinordi definitely left their mark with the big club.

In what could largely be considered as auditions for potential playoff minutes, both prospects looked poised and focused, despite the pressure cooker that is the Montreal market.  Neither looked out of place in the Habs lineup, each registering an assist and a +2 rating in their time with the team.

Both players and coaches alike were impressed by their performances.

Therrien on Beaulieu’s first game:

“Nathan played a solid game,” Therrien said. “He made some good passes, kept his game simple and he’s got good vision with the puck, so he’s good with the transition game. And defensively he was not out of place. For a first game, we’re pleased.”

And in regards to Tinordi’s composure:

“What a start,” Therrien said. “Yes, we’re always pleased he was able to put the puck on the net for a good shot that was deflected by Plekanec, but if you look at his all-around game, he looked mature for his age. He stayed calm.”

D-man Francis Bouillon on Tinordi’s play:

“He played with confidence and I was really surprised because it’s never easy for a young kid like that,” said Bouillon. “He played solid and had a great shot on Pleky’s goal. I saw from the first day at training camp that the guy is pretty mobile for his size and he moves the puck well. In this league, if you want to be a success, your reaction has to be quick.”

With the acquisition of Davis Drewiske, Habs management played on the side of caution, picking up a defenseman with 126 NHL games under his belt.  Still, few would be surprised to see either Beaulieu or Tinordi back in the lineup in the very near future.