Bourque looks to find his game in Hamilton

32-Year old Rene Bourque, who played some lights out hockey in last spring’s Stanley Cup playoffs, was assigned to the Hamilton Bulldogs by the Canadiens Monday after struggling and being placed on waivers, which he cleared. To many, he’s an underachiever. But Bourque is determined to get back to the NHL.

After 13 games with only 2 assists, Bourque is not surprised he ended-up in Hamilton. He says he really can’t explain his lack of production this season, but says it wasn’t for lack of effort. And contrary to what Don Cherry might think, he’s no floater.

Rene Bourque: “I can’t sit here and pout. I gotta’ take it like a man and work my butt off and get back.”

Bulldogs Head Coach Sylvain Lefebvre: “He’s not like that. He’s a good man, good attitude. Actually excited he’s got a chance to play. He wants to find his game and he knows he can do it.”

Lefebvre went through a similar spell near the end of his playing career, and was able to work his way back.

Now, he’s determined to help Bourque do the same.

Lefebvre: “Our goal for him is to go back in the NHL.”

This is Bourque’s eleventh year in pro-hockey, but he hasn’t played in the American Hockey League since the 2006-2007 season when the Blackhawks sent him down to Norfolk for a single game. The Bulldogs welcome Bourque’s experience, especially at a time when they too are struggling.

Bourque: “I’m here to get myself better but also to be a team player, can’t be selfish. They want to be where I was too. Everybody is fighting for spots. It’s my job to do what I can to help everybody out.”

Bourque’s first game as a Bulldog will be Thursday night in St. John’s against the Icecaps.

Bourque: “Even though I’m here, it’s a fresh start for me. Maybe it’s a good thing to get out of there for a while and just get a better perspective of my career and what I want to do.”