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Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as the Earth!

2022-10-12 13:39:59 Updated on 2022-10-12 13:47:20

Brendan Gallagher has always beaten the odds. The 5-foot-9 forward has never been guaranteed anything, he's always had to work hard.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

Just getting drafted into the NHL was a big deal for him.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

Other small players with the same style were not so lucky. Jonathan Marchessault of the Vegas Golden Knights comes to mind.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

Gallagher was lucky enough to have his name called in the fifth round of the 2010 draft. He became the 147th pick in that auction.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

The Montreal Canadiens then gave Gallagher time to develop. He spent two more seasons at the junior level before graduating to the pros.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

A few games in the AHL in 2012-13 and Gallagher was finally ready for the big leagues.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

Against all odds!

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

The diminutive forward quickly made a name for himself with his style of play. Involved despite his size, the winger was never afraid to get his hands dirty.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

After three promising first seasons of 28, 41 and 47 points, Gallagher received an offer he just couldn't refuse.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

The Habs were extending $22.5M over 6 seasons. Gallagher only had two and a half seasons behind the tie at the time!

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

The deal, however, was great for everyone. Gallagher is a small player who plays big. His physical involvement night after night could mean a shorter career, no less.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

The Habs had an energy player for six seasons early in his career. The first two a bit expensive, the next four bargains!

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

Gallagher, meanwhile, also has to live with the consequences of his style of play. Securing $22M this early in his career, why not!

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

The years have passed, and Gallagher has indeed done the Montreal Canadiens proud.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

Awesome 31- and 33-goal seasons in 2017-18 and 2018-19 have actually sparked an idea in the Montreal Canadiens: extend the association with Gallagher.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

The negotiation went very well for the Gallagher clan, who managed to get a 6-year, $39M deal, no less!

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

Since? Injuries...

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

What was bound to happen unfortunately did, and the fiery forward's last two campaigns have been marked by all sorts of pain.

Brendan Gallagher still has a heart as big as dirt

Some will say it was predictable, that Marc Bergevin was trying to save his job, that the decision to give this new contract was not made in a good way...