Beliveau

As I spoke to a number of Canadiens after practice on Tuesday, their comments to be heard in an audio post here, the same theme was replayed: NHL players arrive at training camp today in virtually game-ready shape, having trained most of the summer to arrive in peak condition.

(And they'd better be; the Habs were in camp for exactly three days last weekend before they hit the ice for five exhibition games this week, including three in three nights.)

That's not always been the case, and it reminded me of a story I wrote about Canadiens legend Jean Béliveau nine Septembers ago. I recycle it below, and hope you enjoy the words, and especially the photo that runs with it.

Jean Béliveau is one of the most recognizable legends in Canadiens' history and the city of Longueuil, on Montreal's South Shore, recently unveiled a statue in honour of Beliveau, writes Canadiens.com.

The 800-pound statue is in front of Le Colisée Jean Béliveau - a venue that has carried his name since 1970.

Although originally from Trois Rivières, Béliveau has lived in Longueuil for more than 50 years. The bronze likeness was designed by artists Jules Lasalle and Annick Bourgeau.

Check out a photo gallery of the statue here.