P.K. Subban makes his thoughts on Jim Montgomery's 'kick in the a**' to Brad Marchand crystal clear

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Oct 25, 2024 07:41 GMT

Former NHLer P.K. Subban shared his thoughts on Boston Bruins coach Jim Montgomery's outburst at Brad Marchand during last week's game against the Utah Hockey Hockey Club.

In the third period, Marchand turned the puck over, allowing Utah to score and tie the game 1-1. Although Montgomery successfully challenged the goal, leading to it being disallowed, he seized the moment to criticize Marchand on the bench.

Subban took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his views on Montgomery's approach with Marchand, writing:

"If you can’t handle the heat, stay outta the kitchen! This is pro hockey folks. Big boy bucks, big boy responsibility, means big boy scrutiny! A warranted kick in the a** promotes growth only in the individuals who in embrace it and use it to get better!

"A coach’s ability to be able to engage emotionally with a player is important. We are not robots! We need to be pushed at times!period! Constructive criticism is how we get better. A Winner hears the message, Losers focus on how the message is delivered! Just get better!"

Subban praised Marchand for his ability to grow throughout his career by embracing both successes and setbacks and concluded with a commendation for Marchand's approach, writing:

"Well done."

Brad Marchand defends Jim Montgomery

Marchand downplayed the incident from Utah's game, expressing surprise that it gained so much attention.

"People are very sensitive these days. It's unfortunate how coaches are scrutinized over things like that," said Marchand via CBS News. "There is a lack of accountability nowadays because people can't handle the heat. You make a mistake like that, you deserve to hear about it."

He also defended his coach and expressed disappointment that this incident has become a topic of discussion.

"I'm glad he said something about it. If he didn't, we would have bigger issues," Marchand said. "The fact that is something we're talking about is disappointing, but that's how things are today."

Montgomery also downplayed the incident, saying that he and Marchand did not discuss it after the game last week.