Lernout reacts to Canadiens contract

It was quite a Christmas present for Broncos defenceman Brett Lernout.

He signed a three-year entry level contract with the Montreal Canadiens over the holiday break that takes effect next season.

"It's really exciting for me and my family," Lernout said. "But I have to keep focusing on the game and the rest of the season.

Lernout was drafted by the Habs in the third round of this past June's draft. Being signed to him is an indication they're really serious about him as a player in their organization.

"I think they were pleased with how I've bee playing this year so far," Lernout said. "It's a great feeling it means they're really interested in me and have some expectations. I'm thankful for that.

For Lernout it was all about opportunity around this time last season as he got a chance to play more with guys away due to injury or World Juniors.

"We had guys injured and (Julius) Honka was out at World Juniors," Lernout noted. "The coach gave me a chance to play power play, some PK time and more ice time in general. I guess he liked what he saw and it just escalated."

It's a similar situation now with Dillon Heatherington away at World Juniors and Jordan Harris injured. Lernout would stress to other defenceman the opportunity is there for them now too.

"Everybody gets the opportunity," he said. "It's just a matter of making it happen. Even if you're not playing right away you will get the opportunity in the future and you've got to make the most of it."

Lernout has already equalled his career high in goals with 8 and is 3 points off his career high in points with 19 only midway through the season.

He and the Broncos are on the road this week in Red Deer, Edmonton and Medicine Hat. The road hasn't been as kind to Swift Current as the friendly confines of the Credit Union iPlex.

"I think we just have to come ready to play," Lernout said. "Our road record isn't so good. We've just got to prepare better and play well."

You can listen to Tuesday's game from Red Deer on The Eagle 94.1 FM starting with our pre-game show at 7:30pm.