TORONTO — P.K. Subban knows he’s under the microscope playing for the Montreal Canadiens. After signing a US$72-million, eight-year contract, the star defenceman doesn’t think much will change in that respect.
"I don’t think (the microscope) can get any bigger," Subban said.
Going into Wednesday night’s season opener at the Montreal Canadiens, Subban is ready for criticism to continue. Just not from Habs fans.
"I don’t ever remember getting scrutiny from the fans," Subban said after the team’s morning skate at Air Canada Centre. "The fans have always been supportive. Now as far as critics go, everybody has critics. But the fans have never been a critic of me. I think they’ve been only supportive and I hope that continues."
Subban is one of two rotating alternate captains along with Max Pacioretty, and that brings more of a leadership role for the 25-year-old defenceman.
"You have to conduct yourself the way that got yourself, individually, success and more importantly got the team success," Subban said. "I think there’s new opportunities. I don’t think that should change the way you are or the way you play the game.
"I think it’s just added responsibility. You’re just more aware of what your role is on this team."
While the spotlight is on Subban and will remain there, he’s at least trying to spread it around.
"It’s not just me out there," he said. "We have a wealth of veteran players on our team, a wealth of talent in this organization that’s going to help us win hockey games. It’s not just about one player."
