Geoff Molson has just revealed that the club is currently planning on erecting an iconic silver statue for one of Montreal Canadians’ “Greatest of all Times”.

In a stunning announcement that has left the hockey world reeling, Geoff Molson, CEO and president of the Montreal Canadiens, has revealed that the club is planning to erect an iconic silver statue in honor of the legendary Jean Beliveau, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NHL history.

The statue, which is expected to cost a staggering $113.5 million, has sparked intense reactions amongst both fans and insiders, with some hailing the move as a fitting tribute to a hockey icon, while others are questioning the wisdom of allocating such a large sum of money to a statue.

Beliveau, who played for the Canadiens from 1950 to 1971, is a 10-time Stanley Cup champion, a 12-time NHL All-Star, and a two-time Hart Trophy winner. He is also a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame and had his jersey number (4) retired by the Canadiens in 1971.

The statue, which will be designed by renowned sculptor, François Méthot, will stand at an impressive 20 feet tall and will be located outside the Bell Centre, the home of the Montreal Canadiens.

Supporters of the statue argue that it is a long-overdue tribute to a player who embodied the spirit of the Canadiens and inspired generations of hockey fans.

“Jean Beliveau is a hockey legend and a true icon of the Montreal Canadiens,” said Molson. “This statue will be a testament to his enduring impact on our team and the sport of hockey as a whole.”

However, not everyone is thrilled with the idea of a $113.5 million statue. Critics are questioning the wisdom of allocating such a large sum of money to a statue, especially when the team is facing other pressing issues,

such as the need for a new arena and the ongoing quest for a Stanley Cup championship. “With the team’s current struggles on the ice and financial constraints, is this really the best use of our resources?” asked a skeptical insider.

Despite the controversy, the statue is expected to become a major tourist attraction and a source of pride for the city of Montreal.

“This statue will be a stunning addition to our city’s landscape and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Montreal Canadiens,” said Montreal Mayor, Valérie Plante.

As the news continues to generate buzz, fans are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the statue, which is expected to take place during the 2024-25 NHL season. The ceremony is expected to be attended by Beliveau’s family, as well as a host of hockey legends and dignitaries.

In a statement, Beliveau’s wife, Élise, expressed her gratitude to the Canadiens organization for honoring her husband’s legacy. “We are deeply touched by this gesture and cannot wait to see the finished statue,” she said.

The statue will be made of silver and will feature Beliveau in his iconic Canadiens jersey, holding the Stanley Cup aloft. It will be surrounded by a fountain and a plaza, creating a beautiful public space for fans to gather and pay tribute to the hockey legend.

While some have questioned the cost of the statue, others argue that it is a small price to pay for the impact that Beliveau had on the team and the sport as a whole. “Jean Beliveau is a symbol of excellence and dedication,” said former Canadiens player, Bob Gainey. “This statue is a fitting tribute to his legacy.”

In addition to the statue, the Canadiens organization has also announced plans to establish a scholarship fund in Beliveau’s name, which will provide financial assistance to young hockey players from underprivileged backgrounds.

As the debate continues, one thing is certain – the Jean Beliveau statue will be a stunning addition to the Montreal Canadiens’ legacy and a testament to the enduring impact of one of hockey’s greatest players.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story!