As well, the Spitfires will be able to count on their fans, who have already seen their team win two straight Canadian championships, in 2009 and 2010.
"Our city is made up of winners. Everyone wants to win. We have amazing fans. The pressure is on us and all we can do is play our best. The buzz around the city is huge," glowed the young Russian. "I really can't wait for the puck to drop."
According to Addison, even the little things are helping raise the level of excitement.
"We feel the fever in the city, with all the work being done around the arena; we feel a buzz," said Addison, who signed a three-year contract with the Canadiens in March. "We're even excited to get our parking passes!"
Addison and Sergachev will have to be leaders if they want to help their team do as the 2012 Shawinigan Cataractes, who won the big prize after also being out of action for forty days, did.
"My role will be to be a leader, to work hard and to not take any of my shifts lightly," attested Addison. "I have to give it my all every time, create scoring chances, block shots, play both sides of the ice."
"I'm going to play big minutes. I obviously have to produce offensively and I have to just play my role, whether it's by bringing some offense or playing well defensively," outlined Sergachev. "I have to be good in all situations and I have to leave it all on the ice."
The Russian defenseman's presence on the ice will be very important, according to Addison, who had no shortage of praise for his teammate.
"You can see very easily what he brings on the ice. He has offensive skills, but he also plays very intelligently and has a superb work ethic. He's a professional," said the 20-year-old veteran. "When he comes in, he's ready to play and it's good to see that kind of attitude on the team, especially for a young guy."
After having waited a month and a half, the Spitfires will finally see action right at the start of the tournament, when they host the Sea Dogs in the first game on Friday at 7:00 p.m.
"The confidence level on our team is high, but it'll be a battle," Addison admitted. "There will be lots of highs and lows during this tournament. We have to focus on one shift at a time."
Although Sergachev hasn't spent much time with Bourque since the two joined the Canadiens organization, Addison certainly has, and considers the Quebec-born defenseman a good friend.