Mathieu Dandenault
November 21, 2007
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Although he is was known as one of the Montreal Canadiens’ most solid defensemen, Mathieu Dandenault was originally drafted 49th overall in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings as a power forward. A 107 point season with Sherbrooke of the QMJHL the following year left Scotty Bowman and the Wings with high expectations.
Dandenault played his first NHL season in 1995-96 with the Red Wings, playing 34 games as a forward. 1996-97 saw a move to defense for the season while 1997-98 saw a switch back to forward. 1998-1999 saw the solid placement of Dandenault on the blue line.
Mathieu spent 8 seasons playing as a offensive-minded defensive before becoming one of the Canadiens’ most promising playmakers and goal scorers in the 2007-08 season.
“There were really two ways of looking at it,” Dandenault said. “I could ask for a trade and probably play defense anywhere I ended up or I could do what I’m doing and help this team. I figured why not switch? I had done it before in my career and it was my natural position. I just wanted to help any way I can and if this would help the team, then I was happy to do it.”
Since settling in with Montreal, team mates and staff have nothing but glowing reviews for the well-adjusted player, citing the “vibes” he brings to the dressing room and the chemistry he displays on the ice with his line mates.
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