Serge Savard
The Senator anchored the blue line during Montreal’s golden dynasty.
Serge Savard isn't merely a name in the record books; he is the embodiment of Canadiens' defensive perfection. Known affectionately as "The Senator," his smooth skating and ice-calm positioning anchored the blue line during the franchise’s golden era of dominance in the 1970s. Unlike enforcers who ruled through intimidation, Savard commanded respect through consistency and an uncanny ability to read the play before it happened.
He bridged the gap between the Original Six grit and modern speed, embodying the resilience required to survive Montreal's high-pressure environment. Today, his number 18 hangs in the rafters as a permanent symbol of defensive excellence.
- Position
- Defenseman
- Team
- Montreal Canadiens
- Stanley Cups
- 9
- Jersey Number
- 18 (Retired)
- Hall of Fame Induction
- 1986
- Nickname
- The Senator
Lore & Background
Savard's journey began in 1966, joining a Canadiens team already stacked with talent like Jean Beliveau and Yvan Cournoyer. While he learned from these legends early on, it was his tenure as captain that solidified his place in history. During the late 1970s, under Scotty Bowman, Savard formed one of the most formidable defensive trios in NHL history alongside Larry Robinson and Guy Lapointe—collectively known as the 'Big Three.'
His playing style defied convention for a defenseman; possessing exceptional skating speed, he could cover immense ice to disrupt plays without needing brute force. He was known for his calm demeanor under pressure, rarely taking penalties and preferring to outmaneuver opponents with positioning. Notably, during the WHA raid era when many stars jumped leagues, Savard remained loyal to Montreal, returning from any minor distractions to lead championship runs.
His tenure ended in 1984 due to injury, but his impact was permanent. The Canadiens retired his number 18 shortly after his retirement, cementing his status as a franchise icon.
In Their Own Story
The arena lights hummed overhead, casting sharp shadows across the ice. Savard tightened his laces, the leather creaking in the quiet locker room. He looked up at the C on his chest, feeling the weight of every player who had worn it before him. On the bench, the roar of the crowd was a distant ocean. He caught the eye of Lafleur and nodded once. No words were needed. When the puck dropped, he stepped forward, stick ready, eyes scanning for the opening that would seal another night in Montreal history.
Reader's Guide
Serge Savard defined the defensive backbone of Montreal’s dominant 1970s dynasty. Arriving as a teenager, he quickly became an indispensable pillar alongside Larry Robinson and Guy Lapointe. His playing style was characterized by exceptional positioning, physicality without recklessness, and rare puck-handling skills for a defenseman.
Known primarily as "The Senator" for his dignified leadership, Savard assumed the captaincy in 1973 following Yvan Cournoyer’s tenure. He led the club through multiple Stanley Cup triumphs, anchoring the blue line during the dynasty years of 1976–1979.
Did You Know?
- He was one of the few defensemen in history to take faceoffs in critical game situations.
- Savard won eight Stanley Cups with the Canadiens (1968, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1976–1979).
- His number 18 was retired by the Montreal Canadiens organization in 1984.
- Unlike many peers during the WHA split, Savard remained loyal to Montreal throughout his career.