On August 28, 1978, Lafleur gave an explosive interview to Le Soleil, hinting that he returned from a European vacation with a contract proposal from a West German team.
“I won’t mention the country, but during my trip I received an incredible contract. I was offered $150,000 per season, tax-free, to continue my career overseas. I would only have to play 35 games. I would be given accommodations, staff, and cars. The whole ‘kit.’ I thought I was dreaming when these people approached me. An offer without taxes, that’s amazing. Over here you get devoured by income tax.