Mike Richards says that P.K. Subban needs to earn the respect of his fellow players
One of the hottest rookie players in the National Hockey League this season is Montreal Canadiens defenceman P.K. Subban. The young blue-liner has quickly become a fan favourite in Montreal,
and he has excited many with his high level of competitiveness.
Despite that, some NHL players think that Subban still has some learning to do, especially when it comes to earning the respect of his fellow players. Philadelphia Flyers captain Mike
Richards is one of them.
“He’s (Subban) a guy that’s come in the league and hasn’t earned respect,” Richards told Montreal’s
Team 990 radio station.
“It’s just frustrating to see a young guy like that come in here and so much as think that he’s better than a lot of people. You have to earn respect in this league. It takes a lot. You
can’t just come in here as a rookie and play like that. It’s not the way to get respect from other players around the league.”
The 21-year-old’s lack of respect was evident in the Habs’ 3-0 shutout victory over the Flyers on Tuesday 16 November. During his time with the Canadiens, Subban has gained a reputation
as a cocky player who is never afraid to mix things up, should the opportunity arise.
“Hopefully someone on their team addresses it, because I’m not saying I’m going to do it, but something might happen to him if he continues to be that cocky," Richards said.
Subban’s cockiness and tenacity were recently highlighted by
Hockey Night in Canada analyst Don Cherry when the defender mouthed off to Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby during a game in October.
“It’s good to be cocky when you come in the league,” Cherry said of Subban. “Really, it’s good to be cocky. I like that. But you’ve got to show a little respect ... If he has a big mouth
like that, he’s gonna get hurt.”
By his own admission, Subban is never afraid to make himself heard. His secret to success – don’t be intimidated by the opposition.
“I play them tough, I play them hard,” Subban told the Toronto Sun. “I do everything I can to make sure (the opposition) doesn’t score. If you’re intimidated by guys, you’re going
to get eaten alive.
“You can’t be intimidated. I'm going to go out and play it the way I’ve always played (the game).”
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