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Andrighetto: Canadiens didn't believe in me

Michael Martin / National Hockey League / Getty

Sven Andrighetto is finally getting the chance to make the most of his opportunity.

Traded to the Colorado Avalanche on deadline day, the Swiss winger is now getting the shot he feels was never available to him with his former club, the Montreal Canadiens.

"I was really happy to be traded here. In Montreal, I never got the opportunity to play big minutes," Andrighetto told Rita Mingo of The Denver Post. "I tried my best but they either didn't believe in me or didn't give me the chance."

A third-round pick by Montreal in 2013, Andrighetto toiled with the Canadiens' organization for four seasons, a tenure that included the occasional call-up and short stints with the big club. Though, most of his time was spent seasoning in the minors.

In all, Andrighetto appeared in 83 games with Montreal, posting 11 goals and 17 assists over that time. He was a frequent flier with the Canadiens, and this season alone saw six separate trips to the club's AHL affiliate in St. John's.

Now in Colorado, Andrighetto is seizing his opportunity, where the young forward has been rewarded with increased playing time, averaging nearly 17 minutes a night.

Team GP G A Pts TOI Pts/GP
Avalanche 12 5 4 9 16:52 0.75
Canadiens 27 2 6 8 11:28 0.30

Andrighetto has found quick chemistry in his early goings in Denver, lining up with Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen.

"As an individual, it's always tough to stand out if the team isn't doing well. But everyone has something to play for, that's for sure," Andrighetto said. "Coaches gave me an opportunity and I'm playing with great linemates. They're young and have a lot of skill. They play the same style that I like to play."

That added time has led to an increase in production, with Andrighetto tallying nine points through his first dozen games in the Mile High City. It all bodes well for a player looking to make the most of his long-awaited chance.

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