Well, what can I say. I have been embarrased to write anything lately because we were on such a terrible stretch that there was nothing nice to say at all about the Canadiens. Fortunately, they seem to be coming out of the slump and getting into a grove at the optimal time in the season.
With a few games left in the season, it is looking very promissing that they will be playing in the post season again this year and hopefully they do not end up with New Jersey as their opponent. I would prefer the Bruins or the Capitals, just not the Devils.
When Gainey put Kovalev, Tanguay and Koviu together, a spark seemed to turn into a flame and the team just put it in high gear. The best thing about it was that it was the entire team who picked it up. Komisarek was having trouble earlier and seems to have gotten out of his funk. Schenider started being smarter and Markov stepped it up a notch as well. And of course, the most important piece is the goal tending and that seems to be improving as well. I expect Price to be healthy for Monday nights game in which we almost lock up the playoff birth.
What can I say about Kovalev? Well, when Kovalev is hot, he is hot. He scored last night against the Leafs, on the power play, the same way he scored on the powerplay last year. I don't know about the rest of you, but when Kovalev is out of the linup, the offence is horrific. I know some will disagree, but I am really hoping they sign him for next year as he is a piece of the puzzle that will be very difficult to replace.
But don't forget, there are still many who believe a trade is already in place to bring in big Vinny Lecavalier from Tampa before the no trade clause kicks in. I am not keeping my fingers crossed, but, who knows, we will have to wait and see.
I have so much to say right now that I will have to post more later today or tomorrow. This is the best time of year!
Showing posts with label Gainey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gainey. Show all posts
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Thursday, March 12, 2009
I Have Tickets for Saturday Night
Well, I will be off to Montreal tomorrow afternoon because I have tickets for Saturday night against the New Jersey Devils. It should be good to see Brodeur, I don't know if he is scheduled to break any records if he wins or gets a shut out but I hope the Habs blow him out of the water.
So far I like what I see with Gainey behind the bench. The team is playing harder and they are finishing their checks every time. By the sounds of it, Carbo had trouble communicating properly with the players which could have played a role in the teams lack of motivation and ultimately, the players giving up on the coach.
The potential is there for the Canadiens and when I turn the games on I feel that they are going to play well, I don't get that feeling I had earlier where it seemed like they might not score any goals!
Totally pumped for the U2 music pumping through the speakers at the game and the cheer of the crowd when we score.
So far I like what I see with Gainey behind the bench. The team is playing harder and they are finishing their checks every time. By the sounds of it, Carbo had trouble communicating properly with the players which could have played a role in the teams lack of motivation and ultimately, the players giving up on the coach.
The potential is there for the Canadiens and when I turn the games on I feel that they are going to play well, I don't get that feeling I had earlier where it seemed like they might not score any goals!
Totally pumped for the U2 music pumping through the speakers at the game and the cheer of the crowd when we score.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
And the Next Coach Is...
So, we all know that it is highly unlikely that Bob Gainey will be coaching the team come next September as he said out right that he was temporarily coaching on an interim basis. That leads us to wonder, who will coach the Canadiens next season.
Some of the names I have heard are Patrick Roy, Larry Robinson, the coach of the Bulldogs, Bob Hartley, and why not, Pat Quinn.
Ha, all of those guys have their merits. Patrick Roy is basically a God when it comes to the Canadiens, not to mention he is a fiery guy and is French Canadien. Larry Robinson, also known as Big Bird, is another one of Gainey's friends from the glory days in the 80's. Bob Hartley has had some decent success at the NHL level and his teams tend to play with an edge. And what about Pat Quinn, he loves pressure, he has lots of experience, is burning to coach again, and most importantly has won at just about every level except he is still missing a Stanley Cup ring. Do I think Pat will end up in Montreal, absolutely not, however, his name has been mentioned.
I would expect that Gainey will move pretty quickly in the off season to secure a coach as there could be a number of teams looking for a coach and with so many people left to sign at the end of the year, it would be helpful to have a coach's input.
Some of the names I have heard are Patrick Roy, Larry Robinson, the coach of the Bulldogs, Bob Hartley, and why not, Pat Quinn.
Ha, all of those guys have their merits. Patrick Roy is basically a God when it comes to the Canadiens, not to mention he is a fiery guy and is French Canadien. Larry Robinson, also known as Big Bird, is another one of Gainey's friends from the glory days in the 80's. Bob Hartley has had some decent success at the NHL level and his teams tend to play with an edge. And what about Pat Quinn, he loves pressure, he has lots of experience, is burning to coach again, and most importantly has won at just about every level except he is still missing a Stanley Cup ring. Do I think Pat will end up in Montreal, absolutely not, however, his name has been mentioned.
I would expect that Gainey will move pretty quickly in the off season to secure a coach as there could be a number of teams looking for a coach and with so many people left to sign at the end of the year, it would be helpful to have a coach's input.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Carbonneau Fired!!!!!!!!!!
It is official, Guy Carbonneau has been fired by the Montreal Canadiens and Bob Gainey will be taking control of the coaching duties.
There are a number of theories as to why the firing happened but my guess is that it will never be public knowledge. Some of the rumours stem from the Kovalev situation, the Price situation, and the idea that Gainey needs to make the playoffs or might find himself out of a job in the summer.
I think this move is a shocker and I did like Carbo. However, as I have mentioned before, I did not like the way he managed ice time for players, especially because he had trouble changing his game plan when they were down by a goal with minutes left or something similar to that. Gainey and Carbo were friends and Gainey said earlier this year that the best thing he did as a GM was hire Carbo. Is it possible that something like Kovalev drove a spike between the two and things became too severe to proceed? I do not know. However, I do know that the offence has struggled for most of the year and hopefully this will really get the boys moving and scoring goals. After all, last year they were the highest scoring team in the NHL last year.
One of the issues was possibly that Carey Price was not playing up to his potential and Carbonneau was unable to get him going. There is no question that Price has struggled. Does Price need a different coach to get him going. What about a coach like Patrick Roy? Is Gainey considering St. Patrick as a potential coach? That would be pretty wild, Patrick Roy is my favorite player of all time.
I don't know what to say right now about this decision because I really liked Carbonneau. But as always, I have faith in Bob Gainey so we are going to have to hope that this is a good move.
There are a number of theories as to why the firing happened but my guess is that it will never be public knowledge. Some of the rumours stem from the Kovalev situation, the Price situation, and the idea that Gainey needs to make the playoffs or might find himself out of a job in the summer.
I think this move is a shocker and I did like Carbo. However, as I have mentioned before, I did not like the way he managed ice time for players, especially because he had trouble changing his game plan when they were down by a goal with minutes left or something similar to that. Gainey and Carbo were friends and Gainey said earlier this year that the best thing he did as a GM was hire Carbo. Is it possible that something like Kovalev drove a spike between the two and things became too severe to proceed? I do not know. However, I do know that the offence has struggled for most of the year and hopefully this will really get the boys moving and scoring goals. After all, last year they were the highest scoring team in the NHL last year.
One of the issues was possibly that Carey Price was not playing up to his potential and Carbonneau was unable to get him going. There is no question that Price has struggled. Does Price need a different coach to get him going. What about a coach like Patrick Roy? Is Gainey considering St. Patrick as a potential coach? That would be pretty wild, Patrick Roy is my favorite player of all time.
I don't know what to say right now about this decision because I really liked Carbonneau. But as always, I have faith in Bob Gainey so we are going to have to hope that this is a good move.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Trade Deadline Came and Went
Well another trade deadline has come and gone and Montreal and Bob Gainey specifically has made no changes. Montreal was reportedly linked to a number of players such as Bill Guerin and Olli Jokinen, but these players went else where.
I trust Gainey that he made the decisions based on future and present requirements and that in the long run, it will be best for the team. It would have been nice to see a big center come in and fill the role that Robert Lang had but it didn't happen and I will not cry over it.
Remember last year when Gainey traded Huet and most people were like 'huh'. Well, that worked out just fine. The other thing to keep in mind is that he did improve the team with Schneider, it just didn't happen on trade deadline day.
Tonight Montreal will be playing against a Sabres team that is missing the number one goalie and will be missing another player because of trades so lets hope that the team can rally together and get Price a win and get him rolling.
Look for Price to play with an edge to make sure Carbonneau thinks twice about play Halak when he is healthy.
I trust Gainey that he made the decisions based on future and present requirements and that in the long run, it will be best for the team. It would have been nice to see a big center come in and fill the role that Robert Lang had but it didn't happen and I will not cry over it.
Remember last year when Gainey traded Huet and most people were like 'huh'. Well, that worked out just fine. The other thing to keep in mind is that he did improve the team with Schneider, it just didn't happen on trade deadline day.
Tonight Montreal will be playing against a Sabres team that is missing the number one goalie and will be missing another player because of trades so lets hope that the team can rally together and get Price a win and get him rolling.
Look for Price to play with an edge to make sure Carbonneau thinks twice about play Halak when he is healthy.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Trades Deadline
Hi There!
Unfortunately I have been extremely busy lately and have not had a chance to post anything but I am planning on making more time for this. I have been learning how to be a father, which is a great experience, and also trying to get my new website going which is a free online, movie organizer. You should check it out at http://www.mymovieorganizer.com.
Anyhow, what can I say about the Canadiens. They went through an absolutely horrific slump and seem to have come out of it with 4 wins a row and big reason for these wins is the power play which is ticking along at over 40% since the trade that brought back Schneider. I remember him the first time around and he has got some spunk back and is really turning around a dismal powerplay unit.
As for the insanely talented and streaky Kovalev, I was nervous that he was going to be gone, but he took his break in stride and has come back with fire and is showing why he could potentially be the most talented in the league. With out Kovalev, Montreal is not going any where in the playoffs so it is essential to keep him going or else the season is over.
Carey Price has also been an interesting player this year and I think he needs his confidence back and then he will prove everyone that he is every bit as good as our expectations and that he will bring Montreal a stanley cup. I think that Halak has been a great backup in Price's struggles but unfortunately I do not see a lot of trade market for Halak so I don't expect him to go anywhere, but then again, no one thought that Huet was going to get traded last year.
Andrei Kostitsyn is growing and is really using his quick release wrist shot, which is a canon and can be deadly from anywhere inside the blue line. I think Andrei has 50 goal potential.
One thing this season that I have been dissapointed with is Carbo's line changing. He seems to have difficulty adjusting his lines for different situations. When Kostpolous is out on the ice with 1.5 minutes left to go in a game and we are trailing by 1 goal, I don't like it. We need a goal, put out an offensive unit. Shake things up, throw out a combination of guys to go for it.
Anyhow, things are looking up in Hab land and I still think that they can make a run in the playoffs with the current squad. Don't expect Gainey to sell the farm to pick up a rental player!
Unfortunately I have been extremely busy lately and have not had a chance to post anything but I am planning on making more time for this. I have been learning how to be a father, which is a great experience, and also trying to get my new website going which is a free online, movie organizer. You should check it out at http://www.mymovieorganizer.com.
Anyhow, what can I say about the Canadiens. They went through an absolutely horrific slump and seem to have come out of it with 4 wins a row and big reason for these wins is the power play which is ticking along at over 40% since the trade that brought back Schneider. I remember him the first time around and he has got some spunk back and is really turning around a dismal powerplay unit.
As for the insanely talented and streaky Kovalev, I was nervous that he was going to be gone, but he took his break in stride and has come back with fire and is showing why he could potentially be the most talented in the league. With out Kovalev, Montreal is not going any where in the playoffs so it is essential to keep him going or else the season is over.
Carey Price has also been an interesting player this year and I think he needs his confidence back and then he will prove everyone that he is every bit as good as our expectations and that he will bring Montreal a stanley cup. I think that Halak has been a great backup in Price's struggles but unfortunately I do not see a lot of trade market for Halak so I don't expect him to go anywhere, but then again, no one thought that Huet was going to get traded last year.
Andrei Kostitsyn is growing and is really using his quick release wrist shot, which is a canon and can be deadly from anywhere inside the blue line. I think Andrei has 50 goal potential.
One thing this season that I have been dissapointed with is Carbo's line changing. He seems to have difficulty adjusting his lines for different situations. When Kostpolous is out on the ice with 1.5 minutes left to go in a game and we are trailing by 1 goal, I don't like it. We need a goal, put out an offensive unit. Shake things up, throw out a combination of guys to go for it.
Anyhow, things are looking up in Hab land and I still think that they can make a run in the playoffs with the current squad. Don't expect Gainey to sell the farm to pick up a rental player!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
This Season is Going to Rock
Well, after a long long off season, or so it seemed, the NHL season is set to begin again on Saturday. How will the Canadiens do this year? I predict that they will finish in the top 3 in the Eastern Conference and after that, the playoffs will depend on the performance of Carey Price.
We have all seen a goalie win a game or even a series and Price has the skills to do that for the Canadiens. Montreal's offence should be stronger this year with the additions of Tanguay and Lang. It would have been nice to see Sundin as a Canadien but Gainey could not afford to wait any longer on him as this team is full of unrestricted free agents and this year he wants to make a run for it. Look for some minor tinkering through the season if the requirement comes because the Canadiens have a lot of young talent to use as trade bait.
I see big strides for Plekanec and the Kostitsyn brothers. Last year they all came out and showed big promise and I expect this year will be another great leap. Kovalev appears to be at camp quicker and just as determined as last year so we will just have to wait and see which Kovalev takes the ice.
However, with all the additions of players and the advancement of others through maturity, this team will only go as far as Price. Price is a year older, a year more mature, and has experience in the playoffs with all the emotions that go with it. Price went very high in many hockey pools this year which can only mean that most people are expecting great things from Price.
The season is about to begin and Habs fans are in for a ride.
On a different note, I read that the Canadiens will be introducing a new Goal Song this year. Some song by Quebec natives Simple Plan. I am not sure I am on board with this but I have not heard the song yet. More to come later.
We have all seen a goalie win a game or even a series and Price has the skills to do that for the Canadiens. Montreal's offence should be stronger this year with the additions of Tanguay and Lang. It would have been nice to see Sundin as a Canadien but Gainey could not afford to wait any longer on him as this team is full of unrestricted free agents and this year he wants to make a run for it. Look for some minor tinkering through the season if the requirement comes because the Canadiens have a lot of young talent to use as trade bait.
I see big strides for Plekanec and the Kostitsyn brothers. Last year they all came out and showed big promise and I expect this year will be another great leap. Kovalev appears to be at camp quicker and just as determined as last year so we will just have to wait and see which Kovalev takes the ice.
However, with all the additions of players and the advancement of others through maturity, this team will only go as far as Price. Price is a year older, a year more mature, and has experience in the playoffs with all the emotions that go with it. Price went very high in many hockey pools this year which can only mean that most people are expecting great things from Price.
The season is about to begin and Habs fans are in for a ride.
On a different note, I read that the Canadiens will be introducing a new Goal Song this year. Some song by Quebec natives Simple Plan. I am not sure I am on board with this but I have not heard the song yet. More to come later.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Gainey on his to Swedem - Sundin on his way to Montreal?
Well, Bob Gainey is on his way to Sweden to see if he can convince the talented Mats Sundin to join the Montreal Canadiens. He has until the July 1st deadline to make the signing before the other NHL clubs can make offers to Sundin.
Gainey is going to be convincing Mats why Montreal is a good fit Sundin and why Sundin is a good fit for Montreal. I am sure the fact of a spring Playoff run is something that Sundin would like to enjoy as it seems like ages ago the last time Mats laced up the laces in the post-season.
I give it a 50/50 chance for Sundin to join the Habs. I suspect it to happen by the end of the week if in fact it is ever going to happen. Until then, lets all sit back and cross our fingers, hands, arms, legs, toes, eyes, and anything else that is crossable.
Gainey is going to be convincing Mats why Montreal is a good fit Sundin and why Sundin is a good fit for Montreal. I am sure the fact of a spring Playoff run is something that Sundin would like to enjoy as it seems like ages ago the last time Mats laced up the laces in the post-season.
I give it a 50/50 chance for Sundin to join the Habs. I suspect it to happen by the end of the week if in fact it is ever going to happen. Until then, lets all sit back and cross our fingers, hands, arms, legs, toes, eyes, and anything else that is crossable.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Tanguay a Hab, Sundin on the Way?
Well, I guess we all know that Alex Tanguay is now officially a Montreal Canadien, with all the rumours around the trade deadline that he was on the way here, I guess he is finally here. For a guy that has produced top notch numbers consistently in the NHL, he should be a much needed forward for adding some punch, especially in even strength situations.
The other thing that is heating up is the Sundin talk. Bob Gainey has officially been granted exclusive rights to talk to Sundin before the July 1st deadline and is using it to pursuade him to join the red, white, and blue. Sundin would be a fantastic player to add up front to our line up because he can use his strength and size to compensate for some of our smaller forwards. I am salivating just thinking about him and Kovalev moving the puck around on the PP. We will have to wait and pray, but expect this to happen pretty quickly if it is going to happen.
The other thing that is heating up is the Sundin talk. Bob Gainey has officially been granted exclusive rights to talk to Sundin before the July 1st deadline and is using it to pursuade him to join the red, white, and blue. Sundin would be a fantastic player to add up front to our line up because he can use his strength and size to compensate for some of our smaller forwards. I am salivating just thinking about him and Kovalev moving the puck around on the PP. We will have to wait and pray, but expect this to happen pretty quickly if it is going to happen.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Free Agent News
So, with the season over now, and my grieving completed, we must wonder what is in the cards for changes to the team for next season. Some rumours just will not go away.
One of those rumours is that Mats Sundin is interested in coming to Montreal. I am not sure how much stock I would put into this rumour, but there is no doubt, adding a guy who has put up a point per game for 15 years and is big and strong would be a big help to our team. Not to mention, all those Leaf fans that don't like Sundin would finally get a feeling for how good he actually is.
Streit will likely be able to command a decent salary on the market but he also seems like the kind of guy who would consider giving Montreal a 'home team' discount. It is hard to justify big bucks for a guy who can't even play defence everyday but then again, he is a great asset on the point during the powerplay.
Ryder has likely played his last game in Montreal and will likely leave town for half the money he was hoping to command. I suspect that where ever he ends up, he will put the puck in the net and show that last season was just a bad year. But that is my predictions.
We will have to keep our ears to the ground to see if Sir Gainey makes any draft day deals to move up, likely not, but you never know.
Is it September yet?
One of those rumours is that Mats Sundin is interested in coming to Montreal. I am not sure how much stock I would put into this rumour, but there is no doubt, adding a guy who has put up a point per game for 15 years and is big and strong would be a big help to our team. Not to mention, all those Leaf fans that don't like Sundin would finally get a feeling for how good he actually is.
Streit will likely be able to command a decent salary on the market but he also seems like the kind of guy who would consider giving Montreal a 'home team' discount. It is hard to justify big bucks for a guy who can't even play defence everyday but then again, he is a great asset on the point during the powerplay.
Ryder has likely played his last game in Montreal and will likely leave town for half the money he was hoping to command. I suspect that where ever he ends up, he will put the puck in the net and show that last season was just a bad year. But that is my predictions.
We will have to keep our ears to the ground to see if Sir Gainey makes any draft day deals to move up, likely not, but you never know.
Is it September yet?
Sunday, March 2, 2008
The Price is Right....Again
I think most Habs fans were thinking that the Huet trade seemed like a little bit of an odd trade but if the last games since the trade are any indication of the outcome, we are in for a real treat.
My personal opinion was that Bob was trading Huet to free up room to make a splash in the trade market for possibly two talented players. However, we ended up with none. That is ok because I would not want to see any of our youngsters leave, especially Higgins or the Kostitsyn brothers. After seeing what Pittsburgh had to give up for Hossa, I am happy with the team today.
I will miss Huet because he was a comforting feeling after dealing with the unpredicatable play of Jose Theodore and wish him well in Washington. There wasn't going to be room on the team next year for him as the Price era has begun.
Get ready fans, the cool, collective, and consistent goaltender has now solidified his spot as the starter and only has things to prove. Come playoff time, he is going to be poised to go for the cup, and he has played in some big games so he should be able to handle it.
First place in the Eastern Conference this morning. The predictions at the beginning of the season were 12-13 place in the East, totally missing the playoffs. I hope those analysts got fired!
My personal opinion was that Bob was trading Huet to free up room to make a splash in the trade market for possibly two talented players. However, we ended up with none. That is ok because I would not want to see any of our youngsters leave, especially Higgins or the Kostitsyn brothers. After seeing what Pittsburgh had to give up for Hossa, I am happy with the team today.
I will miss Huet because he was a comforting feeling after dealing with the unpredicatable play of Jose Theodore and wish him well in Washington. There wasn't going to be room on the team next year for him as the Price era has begun.
Get ready fans, the cool, collective, and consistent goaltender has now solidified his spot as the starter and only has things to prove. Come playoff time, he is going to be poised to go for the cup, and he has played in some big games so he should be able to handle it.
First place in the Eastern Conference this morning. The predictions at the beginning of the season were 12-13 place in the East, totally missing the playoffs. I hope those analysts got fired!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Trade Deadline is Approaching...
With the trade deadline approaching and the team fighting for 1st place in the Eastern conference, it is no surprise that Canadiens appear to be the team looking to improve for a cup run.
Gainey seems to be the kind of guy who doesn't like to let the cat out of the bag early and doesn't really like to let anyone know what exactly he is working on. However, when asked, Gainey does not deny that he could be looking around the league for a new offensive threat.
The names being tossed around most recently are Mats Sundin, Marian Hossa, Ollie Jokinen, and Alex Tanguay. The names that are not being said as much are Brad Richards and why not, Vinny, the Montreal boy. The first three players would add an instant boost to an offence that is already the top power play team in the league.
The question is, what would we have to give up? It seems as though the rent a player technique is not as rewarding and as glowing as it once was. This hopefully will keep the cost down. That being said, it is likely that winger Michael Ryder would have to be included in a trade and then some top draft picks.
I am sure Bob knows what is going on so he isn't going to sell the farm to get a player for the playoff run but is willing to put some assets in a trade to give them a better chance to do well in the playoffs.
Michael Ryder's two goals on Tuesday night is probably throwing a stick in the spokes because it leaves everyone wondering if the back to back 30 goal scorer is back on track.
Only time will tell but what ever happens, it should be interesting to see what happens. Even if no roster changes happen, the Habs should put a team that could contend in the Eastern conference.
Gainey seems to be the kind of guy who doesn't like to let the cat out of the bag early and doesn't really like to let anyone know what exactly he is working on. However, when asked, Gainey does not deny that he could be looking around the league for a new offensive threat.
The names being tossed around most recently are Mats Sundin, Marian Hossa, Ollie Jokinen, and Alex Tanguay. The names that are not being said as much are Brad Richards and why not, Vinny, the Montreal boy. The first three players would add an instant boost to an offence that is already the top power play team in the league.
The question is, what would we have to give up? It seems as though the rent a player technique is not as rewarding and as glowing as it once was. This hopefully will keep the cost down. That being said, it is likely that winger Michael Ryder would have to be included in a trade and then some top draft picks.
I am sure Bob knows what is going on so he isn't going to sell the farm to get a player for the playoff run but is willing to put some assets in a trade to give them a better chance to do well in the playoffs.
Michael Ryder's two goals on Tuesday night is probably throwing a stick in the spokes because it leaves everyone wondering if the back to back 30 goal scorer is back on track.
Only time will tell but what ever happens, it should be interesting to see what happens. Even if no roster changes happen, the Habs should put a team that could contend in the Eastern conference.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Ovechkin in Montreal...
The latest rumour on the street is that Alexander Ovechkin could possibly be interested in joing the Canadiens in the next few years. He becomes a restricted free agent next season and is good friends with our best defenceman, Markov.
Is there any truth to this rumour? Potentially. Is Ovechkin interested in joining a team that sells out every game? Considering he has top 3 in the league potential, it would be a shame to see his talent go unnoticed in Washington where they only get a lousy half full rink on a regular basis.
So where do we stand on the Ovechkin line? Well, lets just hope Markov talks to his friend frequently in the near future and is able to sell him on the city. After that, its up to the big guy, Gainey, to come up with an offer that is in the $10 Million range.
But lets not hold our breath, after all, wasn't Koivu suppose to lure Selanne?
Is there any truth to this rumour? Potentially. Is Ovechkin interested in joining a team that sells out every game? Considering he has top 3 in the league potential, it would be a shame to see his talent go unnoticed in Washington where they only get a lousy half full rink on a regular basis.
So where do we stand on the Ovechkin line? Well, lets just hope Markov talks to his friend frequently in the near future and is able to sell him on the city. After that, its up to the big guy, Gainey, to come up with an offer that is in the $10 Million range.
But lets not hold our breath, after all, wasn't Koivu suppose to lure Selanne?
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Trade Looming with the Canucks?
It was recently reported that a number of Vancouver scouts and the assistant GM were in attendance for the Atlanta game on Tuesday night. It is believed that the Canucks are looking for a top six forward to improve upon their pitiful offense.
I can't see Montreal trading away a top six forward to improve on their team because they are stacked in net, and their young defence is coming along quite well. I can't see Montreal even considering a trade with the Canucks at this point but maybe Gainey has a plan that no one can figure out.
This sounds like nothing more than a rumour, but only time will tell.
I can't see Montreal trading away a top six forward to improve on their team because they are stacked in net, and their young defence is coming along quite well. I can't see Montreal even considering a trade with the Canucks at this point but maybe Gainey has a plan that no one can figure out.
This sounds like nothing more than a rumour, but only time will tell.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Yashin a Hab???
The latest word coming out of the speculators is that Alexei Yashin is interested in playing in Montreal along side fellow Russian Alex Kovalev. I am not sure what to make of this. I have despised Yashin ever since the whole fiasco that occurred in Ottawa.
However, I sat and thought about this one. What I have realized is that Yashin could be an asset to the Canadiens if the money is right. The right price for the Canadiens is no more than 2-3 million a season for no more than two years. The key is that Gainey can not get locked into a contract for a player who has had a history of being trouble in the locker room and being lazy on the ice. If it doesn't work out, Gainey would have to find someone to take him off his hands which will be much easier if he has a manageable contract.
Will Yashin take a much smaller salary than he is used to? Well I guess that depends on how much he wants to play in Montreal.
Whether you agree or disagree that Gainey should consider Yashin as that big center to support Kovalev you can't deny that his potential point production is attractive for a guy who puts up just under a point per game and could be part of a dynamic punch with the other big Russian.
However, I sat and thought about this one. What I have realized is that Yashin could be an asset to the Canadiens if the money is right. The right price for the Canadiens is no more than 2-3 million a season for no more than two years. The key is that Gainey can not get locked into a contract for a player who has had a history of being trouble in the locker room and being lazy on the ice. If it doesn't work out, Gainey would have to find someone to take him off his hands which will be much easier if he has a manageable contract.
Will Yashin take a much smaller salary than he is used to? Well I guess that depends on how much he wants to play in Montreal.
Whether you agree or disagree that Gainey should consider Yashin as that big center to support Kovalev you can't deny that his potential point production is attractive for a guy who puts up just under a point per game and could be part of a dynamic punch with the other big Russian.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Samsonov, Going, Going.....
The word on the street is that Gainey is about to continue his offseason tune up by buying out the contract of unhappy, non-productive Sergei Samsonov. This should cost the Canadiens 1.2million for the next two seasons.
The most important part of this buyout should be to remove the bad attitude which can be contageous. The other thing it does is ensures an open roster spot for some of those up and coming Bulldogs like Kostitsyn, Chipchura, or possibly Grabovski.
I am really looking forward to seeing who is going to move up from the Bulldogs to replace some of the open roster spots.
The most important part of this buyout should be to remove the bad attitude which can be contageous. The other thing it does is ensures an open roster spot for some of those up and coming Bulldogs like Kostitsyn, Chipchura, or possibly Grabovski.
I am really looking forward to seeing who is going to move up from the Bulldogs to replace some of the open roster spots.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
The Price is Right Bob!
Last night I had the pleasure of going to the Bulldogs game in which they took a commanding lead on the Calder Cup finals with a 3 games to 1 advantage. The entire team impressed me. However, there was one player inparticular that really caught my attention.Carey Price the 19 year old who still played in the WHL this season looked like a seasoned veteran. The amount of confidence this guy shows reminded me of the good old days with Patrick Roy guarding the net. Price also showed how calm he was and had to do very little acrobatic saves because his positioning was sound and he as always right in the right place to make the stop.
I do not suggest that Carbo and crew should be rushing this kid up to the NHL but Habs fans you can be certain that this guy is the real deal. Hopefully he gets another year or two to mature in the AHL before he gets bumped up to the big club. We would not want to rush him and cause a similar fate for him as Marc Andre Fleury faced. However, when the time is right, you can be sure that Price is for real and that he is going to be an elite goaltender in the NHL.
Expect to see Price bringing home the playoff MVP when the Bulldogs bring home the Calder.
As for Bob Gainey and his decision to draft this guy, well done, and we can't wait to see the full potential of Price.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Habs Offseason So Far
Bob Gainey and company have been rather busy since the Montreal Canadians season was ended by the Toronto Maple Leafs.
After deciding to let Jaroslav Halak go play in the World Championships for team Slovakia he immediately signed 19 year old goaltender out of the WHL's Tri-City Americans Carey Price to play for the Hamilton Bulldogs.
He then went on to sign Andrei Kostitsyn's younger brother Sergei from the OHL's London Knights and Matheiu Carle out of the QMJHL. Price, Kostitsyn and Carle have all been with the surprising Hamilton Bulldogs of the AHL who are currently beating the Hershey Bears in the Calder Cup finals with a 2-1 series lead.
After that Gainey moved on to probably the 2 most important issues, trying to resign both Andrei Markov and Sheldon Souray. Souray coming off a 26 goal 64 point campaign where he also broke the NHL record for PPG scored by a defencemen in one season with 19. With all these good stats Souray had there was also some bad ones. He was a team worst -28 and made his way on the highlight of the night a few times but for the wrong reason. It is believed he could make more then 6 million over 4 years on the open market but the Habs will likely be looking to sign him for something much less. Reports are that he was offered a 4 year deal worth anywhere from $4.25-$5.25 per year. Markov on the other hand had another solid season with 49 points and a +2 rating. He was given a 4 year deal worth $5.75 million a year which was more than I personally thought he would get but then again Montreal NEEDS him more then they need Souray.
Some smaller moves by Gainey was trading for the twin brother of WJC stand out Kris Russel, forward Ryan Russel from the New York Rangers and went on to sign him to a 3 year pro contract. NYR were unable to come to terms on a conract with Russel so they accepted a 7th round pick in this years draft instead of losing him for nothing. Last year he played for The Kootney Ice of the WHL and was on a line with current Montreal draft pick Ben Maxwell. He is a good offensive player with good vision but is small which is his weak spot.
The Habs also signed Finish Elite League player Janne Lahti to a 1 year contract. The 25 year old had a solid season for HPK last year netting 20 goals and 14 helpers. He is a big (200lbs, 6'2) winger who also has a scoring touch. Both players are expected to start in the AHL next year with Lahti maybe cracking the big clubs roster.
It is said that Montreal will try to be active in the free agent market. If they can get rid of underachieving winger Sergei Samsonov's salary that will free up some valuable cap room to help them sign players like Chris Drury or Daniel Briere. If they are unable to sign Souray look for the Habs to turn they're attention to Nashville's defencemen Kimmo Timonen or San Jose's Scott Hannan.
After deciding to let Jaroslav Halak go play in the World Championships for team Slovakia he immediately signed 19 year old goaltender out of the WHL's Tri-City Americans Carey Price to play for the Hamilton Bulldogs.
He then went on to sign Andrei Kostitsyn's younger brother Sergei from the OHL's London Knights and Matheiu Carle out of the QMJHL. Price, Kostitsyn and Carle have all been with the surprising Hamilton Bulldogs of the AHL who are currently beating the Hershey Bears in the Calder Cup finals with a 2-1 series lead.
After that Gainey moved on to probably the 2 most important issues, trying to resign both Andrei Markov and Sheldon Souray. Souray coming off a 26 goal 64 point campaign where he also broke the NHL record for PPG scored by a defencemen in one season with 19. With all these good stats Souray had there was also some bad ones. He was a team worst -28 and made his way on the highlight of the night a few times but for the wrong reason. It is believed he could make more then 6 million over 4 years on the open market but the Habs will likely be looking to sign him for something much less. Reports are that he was offered a 4 year deal worth anywhere from $4.25-$5.25 per year. Markov on the other hand had another solid season with 49 points and a +2 rating. He was given a 4 year deal worth $5.75 million a year which was more than I personally thought he would get but then again Montreal NEEDS him more then they need Souray.
Some smaller moves by Gainey was trading for the twin brother of WJC stand out Kris Russel, forward Ryan Russel from the New York Rangers and went on to sign him to a 3 year pro contract. NYR were unable to come to terms on a conract with Russel so they accepted a 7th round pick in this years draft instead of losing him for nothing. Last year he played for The Kootney Ice of the WHL and was on a line with current Montreal draft pick Ben Maxwell. He is a good offensive player with good vision but is small which is his weak spot.
The Habs also signed Finish Elite League player Janne Lahti to a 1 year contract. The 25 year old had a solid season for HPK last year netting 20 goals and 14 helpers. He is a big (200lbs, 6'2) winger who also has a scoring touch. Both players are expected to start in the AHL next year with Lahti maybe cracking the big clubs roster.
It is said that Montreal will try to be active in the free agent market. If they can get rid of underachieving winger Sergei Samsonov's salary that will free up some valuable cap room to help them sign players like Chris Drury or Daniel Briere. If they are unable to sign Souray look for the Habs to turn they're attention to Nashville's defencemen Kimmo Timonen or San Jose's Scott Hannan.
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