Playing for the winningest franchise in hockey history might just do it. If Domi was going to move on from the 'Yotes, Montreal was an ideal landing spot.
"On the other hand, you've got Montreal, which is the hockey hotbed of the world. As a kid growing up in another hotbed in Toronto, it's definitely a dream come true for me to be able to experience both sides of the spectrum," explained Domi. "They both have a lot of positives, and I'm very thankful I've had the opportunity to take part in both markets."
Looking ahead to a special contest
Domi has been eagerly anticipating his return to Arizona.
It's given him an opportunity to reconnect with some of his good buddies in the Coyotes' locker room.
That being said, Thursday night's matchup is a big one for the Canadiens as they look to snap a two-game losing streak.
"After the first couple of minutes, it's going to be just like any other hockey game where we're going to have to find a way to get the two points," stressed Domi. "We slipped up the last couple of games, and there's no reason we can't get back on track here. Good hockey team over there, and we're ready to go."
The highly-skilled pivot fully expects those first few moments on the ice to bring back some good memories, but he certainly doesn't plan on letting his emotions get the best of him.
"The emotions would come in going through a lot in being drafted here, starting my career out here and kind of making the friends that I made here. That's the emotional part," indicated Domi. "Everything else, that's part of the business. I'm just excited to play a game and see my buddies… It's going to be a very special night, I think."
Head coach Claude Julien has a feeling that Domi will rise to the occasion and seize the moment in his former barn.
"I hope it will motivate him to have a good game," said Julien. "He's adapted well in Montreal. I wouldn't be surprised if he played a really good game tonight."
High praise for Max
During his pre-game press conference, Julien lauded Domi for his willingness to assume any and all responsibilities thrown his way.
The veteran bench boss is clearly a big Domi fan already.
"What I like about Max is, in any situation, whether it was [him being told he'd be playing center], or whether it was moving him around on the power play, his response is always "Put me wherever you want me. I'm just going to do the job." I like those players because they're going to play where you put them and they're going to do everything they can to make it work," explained Julien. "That's a sign of a good player."