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“I knew I still had a lot left,” Bourque said. “It was just a matter of getting with the right fit with the right team. I lost my place in Montreal and never really got a chance this year. So, I think this move … obviously I have to prove myself, but I think I can help this team win.”

Loaded with talent, physical ability, and potential, the knock on Bourque has been his consistency.

Last season during playoffs, the winger turned it on with eight goals in 17 games — one fewer than he scored in 63 regular season games.

But after a slow start with only two assists in 13 games, Montreal clearly was finished with him and sent him to the minors. He was traded 10 days later.

“I got pulled out of practise that morning,” said Bourque who makes $3.3-million at the NHL level. “They just said there was something going down, they didn’t know what but just told me to hang tight. I’ve obviously heard that before so I didn’t put too much thought into it and didn’t get too excited. I had no idea where I was going to go.

“Anaheim obviously was nice to go to, they’re a good team and have a chance to do really well in playoffs so I was excited.”

Bourque said the fresh start was welcomed and he hopes to get his confidence back.

“It was nice to get out of (Montreal),” Bourque said. It was a tough place to play. I’m not saying it was just the media, but it never really went right since I got there. Hopefully a change of scenery will help me out.”

The move to the Western Conference, he added, is positive and he said the physical style of play complements his game.