The rivalry between the Boston Bruins and the Montreal Canadiens has always been one of the most intense in the NHL, but recent comments from Bruins forward David Pastrnak have added a whole new layer of intrigue.

In a move that has caught both fans and analysts off guard, Pastrnak chose to publicly address Montreal’s rising star, Juraj Slafkovsky, in a recent interview—offering a mix of praise and unexpected criticism that has quickly become the talk of the hockey world.

Slafkovsky, the Canadiens’ first overall pick in 2022, has faced his share of scrutiny since entering the league, but he’s also earned respect for his work ethic and determination. At just 21 years old, he leads his draft class in scoring and has shown flashes of brilliance, making him a key piece of Montreal’s future.

Yet, Pastrnak’s words have cast a fresh spotlight on the young Slovak, raising questions about his attitude and leadership.

As social media buzzes and fans debate the motives behind Pastrnak’s remarks, one thing is clear: the spotlight on Slafkovsky has never been brighter, and the next chapter in this storied rivalry may be more dramatic than ever.

Bruins forward David Pastrnak and Canadiens Juraj Slafkovsky

Photo credit: All Habs

Forward David Pastrnak just made a very questionable move and publicly took aim at young Juraj Slafkovsky. While he started by offering some praise, Pastrnak quickly followed it up with harsh criticism of Slafkovsky.

Drafted first overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2022, Juraj Slafkovsky is well used to receiving criticism since arriving in the NHL.

However, the 21-year-old Slovak has never backed down and continues to work hard to improve.

The left winger is currently the top scorer from his draft class at the time of writing. He has totaled 42 goals and 111 points in 200 games so far. Of course, it’s likely he will eventually be surpassed by Logan Cooley of the Utah Mammoth, who has already recorded 109 points in 157 games.

Slafkovsky and Cooley are two very different players, but both are destined for bright futures in the National Hockey League.

Since arriving in Montreal, the young Canadiens forward has never given the impression of having a bad attitude-quite the opposite. Last year, he showed a lot of honesty when speaking to the media, saying that he wanted to model his game after a player like Brady Tkachuk, captain of the Ottawa Senators.

Boston Bruins’ David Pastrnak Publicly Calls Out Montreal Canadiens’ Juraj Slafkovsky

At 29 years old, David Pastrnak just made a rather questionable move in a recent interview.

He chose to speak publicly about Juraj Slafkovsky and initially praised him, saying that he has a good frame, showed progress in 2024-25, positions himself well in front of the opposing net, and has solid puck-handling skills.

David Pastrnak on Juraj Slafkovsky:

“He’s still a young player who is gaining experience in the NHL every year. This season it was already clear that he gave the team more than before…He just needs a little more humility, he should set an example for the young ones.”

However, Pastrnak then turned around and criticized the Canadiens’ number 20, stating that he lacks humility. A surprising statement-especially coming from someone like Pastrnak-and particularly in the eyes of Montreal fans, who know Slafkovsky well.