Lewis re-signs with Als for two years
At age 34, it’s unlikely Nik Lewis could have written his own ticket had he reached free agency next month. Still, there undoubtedly would have been some interested parties.
Instead, the veteran slotback has decided to remain with Montreal, the team that resurrected his career in 2015 following 11 mostly productive seasons in Calgary. And, although he’ll turn 35 in early June, Lewis has signed for two years.
“I’m pretty set on this, more than likely, being my last year,” Lewis told the Montreal Gazette on Wednesday from his winter home in Regina. “I want to play a healthy last season. If I can play at a certain level most of the year, I’ll be happy walking away — or being able to say I have a contract in place and can continue to play.”
Lewis was the Als’ leading receiver on a team that went 7-11 last season, missing the playoffs a second consecutive year. He caught a career-high 102 passes for 1,136 yards while scoring three touchdowns. It marked his first 1,000-yard season since 2012 — the ninth consecutive year he reached that plateau.
And, although new general manager Kavis Reed has admitted he wants the team to get younger, he said a mix of the right veterans must be in place; vets who lead by example when it comes to work ethic and preparation.
“Nik’s productivity remains consistent and his leadership is invaluable as we look to quickly build a team where accountability and focus on excellence is our DNA,” Reed said in a text message. “We have to have the right leadership to help younger players develop in the right culture while being a competitive team right away. “And Nik’s great in the locker-room.”
Although Reed’s a rookie GM, Lewis said he believes in the vision he has presented. And Lewis is bullish over the fact Montreal went 4-2 after Jacques Chapdelaine replaced Jim Popp as the team’s head coach.
Lewis already has started training for next season Now he hopes to change the Als’ culture.
“I’m just looking forward to winning,” Lewis said. “It’s time to bring that winning attitude back to Montreal.”