But he finally broke that silence this weekend, speaking to his hometown paper in Ottawa and admitting that he has been "hurt" by all the trade talk speculating that he could be shipped out of Boston before the seven-year, $28.05-million extension he signed in December has even begun.
"They hurt me a little bit just because I went to Boston and I helped to build that team back up," Savard told the Ottawa Sun in a story published on Sunday. "I’ve really tried to work hard with the young guys and being a core player. I was really focused on staying there for the rest of my career. To hear all this stuff this summer bothered me inside more than anything else."
Despite the persistent rumors, Savard also stated that he doesn’t expect to be dealt. Considering he would have to waive his no-trade clause to be moved, it’s a good bet that Savard will be back in Boston this season.
"Right now I’m a Bruin and that’s the way it is," said Savard. "[But] it’s been tough."
There’s still the possibility things could still get even tougher, and Savard’s continued presence might not be up to either him or Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli. Savard’s contract is still under investigation by the league for possibly circumventing the salary cap with its heavily front-loaded structure.
Barring a league rejection of the deal, Savard should remain a Bruin. How he responds to all the speculation and his ability to get over any lingering hurt feelings will be a key to the club’s fortunes this season.
