Guy Lafleur’s signing was viewed as a massive win for the Montreal Canadiens and the NHL, but it obviously came at the cost of the hearts of the people of Quebec City. “I am saddened for the people of Quebec. I hope they will understand,” said Jean Béliveau, who most likely had some influence on Lafleur as his idol. Béliveau also had previously made the same career-defining decision, choosing Montreal over Quebec City.
Another heart that was broken was Lafleur’s. “The evening I signed with the Canadiens, I cried. I cried for real. I was angry that Quebec didn’t give me their offer before I signed with Montreal.