Slafkovsky makes Canadiens' opening night roster

First overall pick Juraj Slafkovsky will start his rookie campaign with the Montreal Canadiens after the club finalized roster cuts Monday.

The coaching staff called Slafkovsky, Arber Xhekaj, Jordan Harris, and Kaiden Guhle into a meeting together to tell them that they made the team, according to Sportsnet's Eric Engels.

Players on entry-level deals can play nine games at the NHL level and still be sent down to the minors without burning a year off their contract. However, Slafkovsky aims to stick with the Habs as long as possible.

"Just play my best game every time I get the chance to play. I think if I give everything, then I can stay here for a long time, and that's what I will try to do," Slafkovsky said, per Stu Cowan of the Montreal Gazette.

Slafkovsky is currently practicing on a line with Christian Dvorak and Brendan Gallagher. The 18-year-old skated in four preseason games, registering one assist.

The Canadiens begin their 2022-23 season Wednesday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Now that his roster spot is confirmed, Slafkovsky is hopeful his parents can quickly get to Canada.

"I texted my parents (back in Slovakia) right away that they can come now," he said.

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