David Savard Bio
David Savard is a Canadian former professional ice hockey defenceman born on October 22, 1990, in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec. He was drafted 94th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft and also played for the Tampa Bay Lightning, winning the Stanley Cup in 2021, and the Montreal Canadiens. Savard had a successful career spanning from 2010 to 2025, recognized for his solid defensive skills and participation in international competitions with Team Canada.
Early Life and Background
David Savard was born in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada. He began his journey in hockey at a young age, participating in the 2003 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament with a minor ice hockey team from Collège Antoine-Girouard. In 2004, he played for the Richelieu Éclaireurs and later joined the Blizzard du Séminaire Saint-François in the Quebec Junior AAA Hockey League, where he showcased his talent and commitment to the sport. Savard’s early exposure to competitive hockey laid the foundation for his future success in the sport.
Savard’s junior career was marked by significant achievements. He finished third overall at the 2007 Telus Cup, which highlighted his potential as a skilled player. His dedication to improving his game paid off when he was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the fourth round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft after a standout season in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL).
Path to Hockey
After being drafted, David Savard continued to develop his skills in the QMJHL, where he became known for his reliable defensive play. In his final junior season, he focused on enhancing his offensive contributions, which led to numerous accolades, including the Émile Bouchard Trophy for the best defensive defenceman and the Kevin Lowe Trophy for the best overall defenceman in the league. He also set a QMJHL record for assists at his position and was named the Canadian Hockey League Defenceman of the Year.
Savard’s transition to the professional ranks began in October 2010 when he was assigned to the Springfield Falcons, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets. He quickly established himself as a top-scoring defenceman, earning recognition for his performance and paving the way for his eventual debut in the NHL.
David Savard Career
Early Career (2010–2014)
David Savard made his NHL debut with the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2011–12 season. He scored his first career NHL goal on February 7, 2012, against the Minnesota Wild. Despite facing challenges, including injuries, Savard persevered and played a crucial role in the Blue Jackets’ defensive lineup. He signed a two-year contract extension with the team in July 2014, solidifying his position within the organization.
During the 2016–17 season, Savard set a franchise record for plus-minus at +33, showcasing his defensive prowess. His contributions to the team were vital as he became a reliable presence on the ice.
Breakthrough (2021)
Savard’s career reached a significant milestone when he was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning during the pandemic-shortened 2020–21 season. He played a crucial role in the Lightning’s playoff run, contributing to their Stanley Cup victory in 2021. Savard’s performance in the playoffs included five points in 20 games, and he assisted on the series-clinching goal in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals.
Following his success with the Lightning, Savard signed a four-year, $14 million contract with the Montreal Canadiens on July 28, 2021. He faced challenges in his first season with the team, including injuries, but was recognized for his contributions by receiving the Jacques Beauchamp Molson Trophy, awarded to the player deemed to have had a dominant role during the regular season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, David Savard became known for his solid defensive skills and leadership on the ice. He played in his 800th career NHL game during the 2024–25 season, joining a select group of players from his draft class to reach this milestone. His contributions to the game were recognized with multiple awards, including the Jacques Beauchamp Molson Trophy in consecutive years.
David Savard Award Nominations
David Savard has received recognition for his performance throughout his career, including nominations for various awards that highlight his contributions to the sport of hockey.
David Savard Awards Won
David Savard has won several awards during his career, including the Jacques Beauchamp Molson Trophy, which he received for his significant role in the Montreal Canadiens’ success during the regular season.
David Savard Family
David Savard is married to Valerie Lachance, and the couple has three children: a daughter named Emma and two sons named Elliot and Zachary. He is the youngest of three siblings.
Personal Life
Savard married Valerie Lachance during the 2018 offseason in their home province of Quebec. He maintains a private life away from the rink, focusing on his family and enjoying time with his children.