Who needs Peter Forsberg anyway?
-
Yesterday Bob Gainey admitted to making a few calls over to Philadelphia to see what the price for Peter Forsberg was. Absolutely no response, no interest from King Peter and the Flyers.
Another apparent dis to Montreal and Hab fans who want a big name trade before the deadline.
The Habs got a bit of karmic revenge when Peter Forsberg fell flat on his ass in his attempt to tie the Canadiens winning shoot out goal.
You could already hear him blaming it on his foot, his skate, his whatever, before he even got up off the ice. Even better was Tomas Plekanec used Peter’s own move in the shoot out to keep the Canadiens in it.
Here’s an interesting stat, since Forsberg was dealt to the Preds he has 0 points, in that same span Garth Murray is tearing up the net with 2 clutch goals.
Enough picking on Peter, as bad as his shoot out attempt was I don’t think I’ve seen a worse shot in the history of the shoot out than Alexander Perezhogin’s shot. I’m pretty sure even Aaron Downey could get a shot ON GOAL in a shootout.
The good news is the Canadiens got 2 points on the road against a great team. Everyone expected the Habs to walk out with a loss but they overcame 2-0, 3-1, 4-2 and 5-4 leads on the road against one of the best teams in the west.
If the Canadiens hadn’t taken 400 penalties and scored 2 goals in their own net it might not have even went that far.
The Predators offense is potent no doubt, but for a team that has expectations of a deep playoff run their D looks suspect. After all, these are the Canadiens that they squandered 3 two goal leads too not the Red Wings.
Jaro Halak seems to be gaining confidence with each game, 3-0 ain’t a bad start in the NHL and he’s looked pretty solid. How long can he keep it up?
Out of nowhere it seems the Canadiens have won 3 straight games and are still hovering in that 5th-10th pack. Huge points for a team about to embark on a long road trip.
Leave a Comment
February 23rd, 2007 at 12:57 pm
#182 coutNY_HabsFan (re-post)
Posted on February 23rd, 2007 at 11:54 am. About ‘Your ideal Sheldon Souray Trade’.
Gazette Reports - Pitt showing interested in Rivet… Could we send him to a possible Eastern team with a possible playoff match-up? Do we take what we can get and free up some room for some youngsters?
Rivet and Higgins are projected to be back in the line-up Saturday and Kovalev, I am sure will want to get back into action soon. Carbo will once again be tested, but this time because players are doing well, instead of missing assignments.
The fact is I doubt he’ll sit Kovalev, nor would I want him too (unless he defies Carbo’s authority)! His talent and tempo control are an valuable asset in a grueling night after night playoff atmosphere. Many believe Nashvilles acquisition of Forsberg was to add this particular tempo setting dynamic to a talented but one dimensional team. Forsberg may still get feet wet but they’ll be better with him. I think now that Montreal players are getting in front of the Net the team’s production will benefit especially a Kovalev type player. He is also the teams’ best shoot-out player, which undoubtedly helps any team ask Forsberg… Anyway that is one rooster player to be removed.
Rivet return? No Question, a player that loves Montreal and the Fans. Not playing as well as players such as Streit which I believe better compliments Souray as his wing man, possess a better sense to when to jump into an offensive rush, faster, and has a more lethal shooting capability. But can we deal him or fit him into the system remains to be seen?
Higgins is probably a no brainer to most and will be back in the line-up!
Who goes? Who stays? Who Knows?
What would you do?
Milroy – he’ll probably be the 1st casualty and will go back to Hamilton with Higgins return. He’s got good nose for the net but has not shown the confidence needed to play at top level. I think he be on this team because Carbo openly said he likes him, but still a little timid to secure a roster spot.
Kosti will probably get another opportunity to prove his existence with Kovalev out and our need for another forward. His size and energy was a breath of fresh air we needed after giving up an early lead. Hopefully he can establish a scoring sense, to gain a much needed respect currently lacking on the second line.
Halak will remain in net until he plays bad. Hopefully til summer!
Murray with his work ethic has re-emerged from the press box, but probably does not have the talent to remain on full-time.
Laps probably remain on 4th line and develop into a Bonk type player, with an agitation role to add. He also needs to plant himself in front of the Net. A habit I have been noticing is that he likes his outside corner shot emerging into the offensive zone. His shot is not a high percentage shot and usually he’s leading the rush, so no possibilities for rebounds. Needs to learn to stop the rush, establish the zone, and wait for his wing men to join him, and then go to the Net!
Laten, has struggled as of late and may be feeling the pressure of his young Hamilton friends looking find a piece of the Hab pie. He does not use his size to his advantage and has begun playing like a small stick handling floater, and frustration has led him to damaging penalties. He is highly talented and is a future star. Needs work through this rut and keep in Carbos good graces! Best way is to show some grit and get to the net. Leave the stick handling to guys like Koivu, Kovalev, Higgins, hate to say it Sammy, Perez…
Good luck Carbo!
Go Habs Go
February 23rd, 2007 at 1:00 pm
yeah it was a huge win, for us beacuse if we loss we would be out of a playoff spot, or tied for 8th. Our next three games are huge Toronto, and both New York teams, so it would be nice to take them all. But we cant beat the leafs, so i hope we take 2 out of the 3. Also even though Halak has terrible numbers, a lot of the goals aren’t even his fault. I’ve seen 4 or 5 of the goals that hes let in go off habs players lol, but the 3-0-0 looks nice. I hope they can keep it up and take a huge game a saturday:)
Habs 4 Life
February 23rd, 2007 at 1:52 pm
Higgins will obviously play in his home town on Saturday. HE will make sure he does not miss out this time after missing our last visit. RIvet to Pittsburgh for ANYTHING would be a bonus. Im still hearing that Gianey is talking with FLorida but for Jokinen. Probably just Stumpel.
February 23rd, 2007 at 1:53 pm
The Habs coaching staff is more suited to younger players ,kinda obvious,so lets move Rivet and Kovalev and make some cap room,which intern gives Milroy and Kosty time to adjust for a hopeful birth into the playoffs. We gots a no quit attitude back,due to our young players,plus its the direction the team and the N.H.L. is going,so NOBRAINER !
I WOULD LIKE ONE REALLY BIG GOAL SCORING INSTAGATOR TO TAKE CARE OF THE LIKES OF ******** LIKE NEIL and I would trade Kovalev to Phoenix strait across for Laroque,heh heh.In the off season move out Abby and Huet,our D plays better knowing the young guys need them. Thanx to the new Habbies,HOCKEY’S FUN ONCE AGAIN, NOW GO KICK THEY’RE ASSES !!!
February 23rd, 2007 at 1:58 pm
I was impressed with the way they did’nt give up on the puck when they were down by 2. They got a few back breaks but did let them phase them. As I was viewing I could tell that there was a possibility they could come back. I could not say that 3 weeks ago when they were down. Halak is playing well and will benefit from the stay on the habs as the coaching will only improve his positioning. He looks ready to stay long term. I we can keep up the never say die atitude then who knows what can happen…
February 23rd, 2007 at 2:16 pm
I think we’re all starting to see what I’ve said all along: This team is far better off without Kovalev. The guy is selfish, he dosen’t try, he only plays for his paycheck and in the playoffs for his own glory. His attitude infects the rest of the team.
I still wouldn’t be surprised to see Gainey deal Souray within the next couple of days if San Jose or Anaheim(most likely the Sharks), come up with one of these monster packages floating around the rumor mill.
Gainey would be insane to turn down Carle and Pavelski(a Joe Sakic/Brad Richards type player with a wicked wrist shot). Souray has 20 games left in a Habs sweater. You might as well get a future #1 d-man(and that’s in 1-2 years) and a #1-#2 centre in Pavelski.
And Columbus just traded Anson Carter to the Canes for basically nothing. Rutherford’s at it again. Adding older veterans not having great seasons in hopes they can turn it around. I don’t think it’s going to work as with with Carter as it did with Rechhi and Weight. And they’ve lost Cole for 4 weeks so they needed a winger.
Didn’t see the win last night coming. I thought they were going to get demolished. That was great.
And if anyone watches The Spin on The Score you saw some writer from the Toronto Sun saying Halak is a nothing prospect and isn’t very good. Once again someone from Toronto who dosen’t know what good goaltending is cause they haven’t had a Stanley Cup winning goalie in 40 years. They can stick with Pogge for all I care. Regardless of wether the Habs have Halak or Price in net against him they’ll still win.
February 23rd, 2007 at 2:49 pm
HABS#1: If you read my comment yesterday, post#170, I said exactly what you’re saying, re Kovalev. He is the CANCER on this team. But now with the kiddie crew, we have an infusion of new blood, mixed with a positive and no quit attitude. I like the fact that they refused to give up last night despite down by 2 goals, 3 times. We need the guts and gritty attitude. I think that Melanson can work with Jalak to help him get the right angles, and not to stay so far back in the net. The kids will get lots of direction from the coaches, and hopefully it will translate into some goals. I just hope that Carbo doesn’t send Kostityn and Milroy back. If we does, and Rivet and Kovalev return, I fear that same old negative and selfish attitude will return. He can’t do that! KOVALEV IS A KILLER! HE CONTAMINATED THE WHOLE TEAM!
Screw his talent! He should play 1 on 1, because he thinks only of himself, and really hurt the team more than he helped!
If Gainey could trade Souray to SJ for Carle, that would be a good step forward, because we would get a young and talented D man, and not have lost anything. Also it would help the salary cap. If we picked up a scorer, he could be more than just a rental. If an agreement on a trade could include a clause that the player must also resign for next year, then go for it.
Even if this team continues to win, and make the playoffs, without an added scorer, a 1st round elimination is the most likely scenario. I hope Gainey can see that.
We’re going to beat NYI, NYR, and leafs(in a shootout). I can feel it!
February 23rd, 2007 at 3:39 pm
San Jose has not offereed anything crazy for Souray YET. The best offer has beeen Pavelski and conditional 3rd rounder for OSuray. WHICH simply is not good enough. Carle straight up is also not good enough to pry away our leader on and off teh ice. IF DOug WIlson really wants him he will have to make a ridiculous offer. HE needs to realize that we are in the middle of the playoff race and have no dire need to unload salary.
Minimum price - Bernier/Carle
I know its steep but you have to realize we are talking about a NOrris finalist here.
February 23rd, 2007 at 3:39 pm
“I am Canadien ” — “coutNY_HabsFan” great posts, i agree.
Here’s to Cinderella stories and blown tires when we need them the most.
regards –
February 23rd, 2007 at 4:01 pm
We showed HEART tonight, that is why the Canadiens won. Gainey needs to see what he can do to make a trade because we need a backup goalie for the stretch drive. We need someone who can play to the level of Huet earlier in the season. Halak is still not ready for the NHL. Give him a couple more years and then he will become a bonafide #1 goalie like Carey Price. We have a lot of depth in net and we will be successful in the future but we need some players who can help us this season. For some of you people who are saying that Souray will just leave at the end of the season might be in for a surprise. Sportsnet reported that the Canadiens will do whatever they can to resign him to a long-term deal in the offseason. Now, he might leave, that is true to be closer to his daughter but he even said on Off the Record a week or so ago that the stories about him going to the west coast are not true and that if the Canadiens made the right type of offer, he would stay with them. Maybe, just maybe the Canadiens can resign him in the offseason. We need someone like Souray who helps the team and shows heart. Since Kovalev got injured, they have been playing better hockey. Maybe they needed a change, that is what was needed to get them back on track. Hopefully we can find a way to beat the Leafs on Monday, something we have had trouble doing all year. We play well against a lot of other teams but we suck against the Leafs, I have no clue why that is the case. Does anyone else know why we have played so poorly against the Laffs this season?
Ziman
February 23rd, 2007 at 4:40 pm
Who’s Peter Forsberg?
Maybe the Habs should just let Alexei Kovalev fly his jet and golf all season long and bring him in for the Playoffs… dunno. He’s killer when he wants to be… when he wants… when… aw, forget it.
February 23rd, 2007 at 4:40 pm
Chris Drury out indefinitely with a possible concussion stemming from Chris Neil blind angle, which I would say cheap-shot sparking retaliation brawl last night… Buffalo is wearing thin with forwards as list keeps growing… Things should be interesting for the Saturday rematch!
Buff IR list-
C. Drury C
D. Paille LW
A. Kotalik RW
J. Novotny C
P. Gaustad C
T. Connolly C
February 23rd, 2007 at 4:50 pm
Quick Joshtm and jump on the badwagon before it is too full. There are still alot of seats available but after wins in New York and against TO it might be too late.
February 23rd, 2007 at 4:53 pm
How embarrassed do you think Forsberg is right now… going from the most desired trade icon to falling on his *** and failing to even register a shot on a rookie goalie to lose a shootout…
February 23rd, 2007 at 5:12 pm
“Yesterday Bob Gainey admitted to making a few calls over to Philadelphia to see what the price for Peter Forsberg was. Absolutely no response, no interest from King Peter and the Flyers.”
I doubt BG wanted to talk directly to Forsberg, he was probably calling Paul Holmgren/GM Flyers and that is who didn’t reply or return his call.
If so, that is poor manners or public relations on Holmgren’s part and Forsberg shouldn’t be blamed, may not have even known about BGs call.
However, it continues to help me maintain my dislike for the Flyers, the a**holes of the NHL since their arrival in ‘67. This is my personal opinion and does not reflect the opinion of any other Habs fan.
February 23rd, 2007 at 5:13 pm
hey hab dudes
forsberg can help any team out.. even the habs!!!!!
i think its a shame sometimes the way that so called fans come down on elete players like ,forsberg, kovalev..ect
when these guys are at the top of there game they are heros,
and when they are not, they get s$$it on .
kovalev can only help us on his return!!!!
wont it be something…… the last game of the reg. season
habs vs leafs……… the winner goes to the play offs the loser goes golfing…..
habs 4 leafs 3 ,,,, kovalev with a hat trick…
i think it was mark messier that thanked kovalev for his great play when the rangers won a little shiney cup or something
have a great day guys ..
and remember win or loose support the habs…..
ps ,, all stand and be in awe of our fearless leader MR.bob ganiey
February 23rd, 2007 at 5:29 pm
Actually Forsberg’s style doesn’t fit Nashville’s, a bad fit. Forsberg would be a natural on the Koivu line, or teaming up with Kovalev, I could see why Bob was interested in him. Or imagine Forsberg rushing in with Lapierre or Milroy, another natural fit.
As for Montreal’s recent three game winning streak, it took bringing up Halak, and the rookies. Kind of reminds of a similar winning streak Montreal enjoyed, it was called the start of the season up to Christmas, until Gainey shipped down the core of the team that was responsible for the wins.
The veterans work off the speed and the impact of the rookies, you see without the rookies, who is gonna grind down or upset and knock the other team off their keister. Without the rookies all you get are the other teams who find Koivu’s or Johnson’s groove during the game and basically pommel them to death. For instance look at the Nashville game, because the rookies were grinding the hard hitting Preds, Johnson got away with being able to be Johnson.
Compare that to before the rookies came onboard, the whole game would feature Johnson basically spending his whole shift falling down or getting up. The same with Koivu.
This reinforces the fact that we need strength we need to hit back, not with fists, not like Brashear, which was a big mistake some years ago, but strong defensive players, or strong offensive types, or strong center men, etc.
February 23rd, 2007 at 7:04 pm
BIG 2 POINTS LAST NIGHT. GREAT GAME .
When is ALEX expected back.
February 23rd, 2007 at 7:52 pm
Hopefully never. Kovalev should retire to Russia and flying his plane.
I hope he never plays for the Habs again
Kovalev out of the lineup = Habs winning
February 23rd, 2007 at 8:05 pm
Maybe you should go fly a kite…….
He’s the best player we have.
The HOCKEY Gods know he could help the team even more!! and you call your self habs#1
February 23rd, 2007 at 8:08 pm
Tomorrow’s lines:
Shutt-P.Mahovlich-Lafleur
Lambert-Risebrough-Tremblay
Gainey-Jarvis-Roberts
Cournoyer-Lemaire-Wilson
Lapointe-Savard
Robinson-Van Boxmeer
Bouchard-Awrey
Dryden
Trottier and the Isles should be shakin’ in their skates eh
February 23rd, 2007 at 8:33 pm
Maybe Kovy will see what is happening with the team during his absence and realize that he must modify his style (and attitude) in order to not disrupt the chemistry that is reforming on the team. We can only hope….
February 23rd, 2007 at 8:47 pm
guys i know kovalev has gotten us angry at multiple occasions but from past experiences he has shown us his worth in the playoffs.
You know all you Sammy bashers, and I could be called that too, you gotta admit that his goal was important. I know it aint worth the money he’s paid, but if he only gets going near and in the playoffs, then so be it. Our team will be stronger in the playoffs then.
BTW, Last night has showed Gainey that the team as it is right now can win big games against big teams. I for one will not called him incompetent if he decides to do no trades.
February 23rd, 2007 at 8:55 pm
my son says ,kovalev will be back for the rangers game
February 23rd, 2007 at 8:57 pm
who’s your son?
February 23rd, 2007 at 9:02 pm
I meant it as if had relations with a hab player or sumthing or if he had a gut feeling about kovy’s return
February 23rd, 2007 at 9:39 pm
I’m praying rite now to the Hab Gods for a trade involving Kovalev and Rivet.It’s a beauty pkg for some team and hopefully get more young but big and tough talented players.Yesterday’s Sens and Sabres game is the tempo that’s in store for the remaining games and I for one am sick and tired of watching the Habs get ***** slapped around at the will of other teams ,who use it as a successful tactic to throw the Habs of their game or as in the case of last nites Sens game ,Neil’s taking out of the SABRES CAPTIAN. Sound Familiar ? It’s not the first time the Habs have had to take such measures ie. Pierre Bouchard , Ted Harris, Kordic,Brashear and a host of others.
February 23rd, 2007 at 10:19 pm
Hey Angelo: I think you should go fly a kite, or go make a pizza, because you know nothing about the habs! Anyone who says Kovalev is our best player, knows ****!
He is, by far the most selfish,narcissistic, puck hogging, underachieving prima donna I have ever seen. I only wish we could send him on a 1 way trip to SIBERIA! He shows up 25% of the time, and sleeps the rest of the time.
The rangers got rid of him for a reason. He’s a CANCER!! He infiltrated our team like a virus, and contaminated all our players. He is useless and can’t even score. I hope he never comes back. What a piece of sh$%^*t. For 2 months he had no qualms about playing with that elbow, but all of a sudden(as soon as he get’s benched), he’s too injured to play! With players like that, why have a team?
February 23rd, 2007 at 11:24 pm
We should all thank the Lord that Philly did not respond. Forsberg is another prima donna who consistently breaks down when the going gets rough. I am not saying that he is not tough, but he is a player that only shows up on a part time basis. I have watched him in many games when he is completely unnoticeable.
I am starting to agree that Canadian players might be worth paying an extra price for. Not only do these players bring certain leadership and other intangibles to the teams that they are playing for, but look at the current scoring leaders (Crosby, Lecavalier, St. Louis, Savard, Thornton, Savard, Heatley, Briere, Iginla, Sakic, Brind’ Amour.)
If the Habs are considering breaking the bank before the trade deadline, at least get a Canadian player for the money.
PS. Hey Jack Todd! Your “electrifying” golden boy, Ovechkin, has dropped to #12 in scoring and remains a LARGE MINUS (-14) to his team. Rookie of the year last year, what a joke?
February 23rd, 2007 at 11:37 pm
Joshtm:
You have surprised us all yet again with your post #17. If anyone in the NHL has earned the title “broken down,” Forsberg has!
February 23rd, 2007 at 11:39 pm
You know there is nothing wrong nor is it illegal to send Kovalev, Rivet and Ninnima and Samsonov down to the dogs, send Downie and maybe either Dandy or Boully, this bunch is responsible for the horrible decay in defense.
You know where we see the other team basically set up their shop in Montreal’s end, heck on some nights they even set up their farm team and build high rise apartments in the defense zone, such is the ownership of the defense zone.
That is just pathetic, next the other teams will during the home games go up into the wives stand, the habs wives stand and steal their wives, heck since the other teams basically steal the habs end. Yup, imagine that, if they did that, they might as well, you know start paying Quebec taxes since the habs pretty well welcome the other teams with open arms and say “come and knock down our goalies, come and own our zone, we the defense give you the chance to win”…heck we might as well ask Carbo to paint For Sale signs on all the defense helmets except for Souray, Markov and the rookies…heck sell Huet and Abby too.
February 23rd, 2007 at 11:46 pm
You know, I bet if Gainey offered the Preds a trade, trade one prima donna for another, “Andy Over Andy Over send Alexei over” would yell the Preds and then Bob would answer “Elvis Over Elvis Over send Foppa over” and hey, I would not be suprised if Kovalev would be just the kick the Preds need to heck, win the cup. Weird things have happened in the NHL.
February 23rd, 2007 at 11:50 pm
Hey, R habs 4 real, while I agree with you about Kovalev not being our best player, I have to say that every team has a kovalev type player, I think we should not be so rash in wanting to get rid of him so quick. Eg: Eric Lindros,Mats Sundin,Owen Nolan, Jeremy Roenick,Kovalchuk,Bill Guerin,Darcy Tucker,Alex Yashin,Sean Avery,J. Jagr, and I could name many more, who are cancers to a team. The problem is, they happen to be talented cancers that when playing at the top of their game can help a team tremendously. If he is a known cancer, and he is known as one, do you think the top notch teams would want his services? Of course they would. They know that putting up with a little bullshit is a small price to pay as opposed to what that guy can deliver.If Kovalev was up for trade bait, you could be rest assured, a lot of teams will come banging on the door with offers. To be fair to Kovalev, it would be nice to at least give him a little time with kostitsyn and a half decent center for a couple weeks to see how it goes, if it doesnt work out, well , we’ll trade him next year. What do you think?
February 23rd, 2007 at 11:55 pm
Joshtm:
Hmmmm! Maybe, that would be an interesting move, but I wonder if Hamilton would even want them? If these players cannot even get motivated to compete for the Stanley Cup, the Calder Cup probably has even less appeal! Good thought though.
If Samsanov and Kovalev could have even put it together briefly and gone on a scoring tear even for a week or two, another team might actually have some interest in them. Samsanov could have had that trade off the Canadiens that he had been wanting. With the trade deadline looming, it is probably too late now, and the only possible way to get rid of these guys would be to package them with someone else that another team actually wants.
February 23rd, 2007 at 11:57 pm
6 logical moves from a business stand point:
1. Souray and Perezhogin (or Kostistyn) will be part of a package deal
2. Rivet will be moved somewhere out west
3. Aebischer will not be resigned in the off season
4. Jannie Niinimaa will not be resigned
5. Aaron Downey will not be returning
6. Halak will be the back up to Huet next season
We will be saving $10,412,000
That’s a lot of money to spend on free agents.
There will be some great players available this year.
With over $10 million available funds money talks baby.
February 24th, 2007 at 12:04 am
You know just once it would be nice to see Carbo pull the same kind of emotion that the the Sabre’s Sens coaches showed. Instead all we watch is Carbo flap his arms like a friggen sea gull!
February 24th, 2007 at 12:04 am
With a little luck maybe Alex will RUB THE pizza in your face!!
And yes the habs are 4 real.!
February 24th, 2007 at 12:10 am
On another matter, does anyone really know anything about this Wild prospect, Benoit Pouliot, who has been the subject of some trade rumors lately?
Should there be any legitimacy behind these rumors (and there rarely seems to ever be any truth in these), who should the Habs give up to acquire him? Is Rivet going to be enough?
February 24th, 2007 at 12:12 am
no pouliot will be a star in this league someday habs will have to bring more to the table than just pop rivet
February 24th, 2007 at 12:13 am
Lorenzo: I would have to disagree on a couple of players on your list of cancers. Guerin? Sundin?
Sundin is the heart and soul of the leafs. I would take him in a heartbeat!
And Guerin is a great goal scorer. I would take these guys any day over Kovalev. It’s a slam dunk. C’mon,check your choices again. Sundin has scored 30+ goals 13 years in a row. Guerin scores over 30 every year. when in the past 5 years has Kovalev scored more than 15 goals?
You know, we end up with all the rejects nobody else wanted. We get other team’s problems. Check this: Samsonov(nobody wanted him), Kovalev(rangers couldn’t wait to trade him),Bonk(couldn’t score in Ottawa),Aebischer(lousy in Colorado),Ninnimaa(ugh!), Johnson(we were deceived into thinking we’re getting a goal scorer); Not a pretty sight!
February 24th, 2007 at 12:13 am
Hey Angelo, fogedaboutit….Alex wouldn’t pull the gloves off even if the other team pissed and **** all over him..oh no Alex ain’t that kinda player Angelo, in your dreams.
All Alex cares about is Alex. He doesn’t give a **** if he forgot your pepperoni, never mind he forgot to hand over the cheese, heck no, he doesn’t even care if you don’t have garlic on your bread….but really, Kovalev fits in good with Kosty and Milroy, he did before christmas, maybe if they can get their groove back, Alexei could give us a fancy finish to the season, or hey, Alexei could blame it on his funny bone…
February 24th, 2007 at 12:15 am
he was drafted right before price was at 4th
February 24th, 2007 at 12:20 am
WHat about koivuu???
February 24th, 2007 at 12:21 am
Hey we could use the Coyotes Laroque, wouldn’t that be a natural trade, send Kovalev and Samsonov to the Great One and we get that nasty centerman we all desperately need.
February 24th, 2007 at 12:24 am
Pactum:
Wow! Fourth overall! Sounds like he will be pretty costly if the Wild are seriously trading him. However, the Habs may have some veterans/players that the Wild might be interested in. For example, Aebischer (Minnesota seems to like to carry two goalies even in the playoffs), Samsanov, Kovalev, Niinimma, Perezhogin, etc.
February 24th, 2007 at 12:39 am
Hey Joshtm take a breather on Kovalev.Why such a pounding, it’s a team game not tennis..
February 24th, 2007 at 12:47 am
Laroque in C.H. punching out Neil WOULD BE VERY SATISFING . Take that ***** out before he kills someone. Neil’s “keep your head up comment” , yeah, class act.It’s not worth ******** Souray’s wrist fighting Neil,but it’s still has to be dealt with , plus there’s others that pull the same ****.
February 24th, 2007 at 12:52 am
I am not trying to sound like Don Cherry or anything, but…
If you look at the 6 leading teams of all divisions (currently, Buffalo, New Jersey, Tampa Bay, Nashville, Anaheim, and Vancouver) you will note that they carry an average of 6 Europeans on their teams. (Anaheim - 3, New Jersey -4, Tampa Bay - 6, Nashville - 7, Vancouver - 8, Buffalo - 10)
The Canadiens carry 13 European (more than twice the average of the division leaders) on their roster. Just pointing that out, for interest.
February 24th, 2007 at 1:01 am
We know Rob, we see them every game and your rite 13 is way to much,keep the young one’s ,we’ll canadienize em.
February 24th, 2007 at 1:02 am
Guys, I’m 100% with your statement Rob. And it’s not because I’m rascist or anything, but there are many reasons to this problem:
1- Canadians grow up wanting to hold the Cup. Europeans just wanna make it to the NHL.
2- You go ask someone on the street what was the score of the closest team and the guy will know pretty much for sure in Canada. (atleast they do in Quebec about the habs!) Whereas in Europe, they know about the score in Soccer. Therefore they don’t grow up surrounded by hockey fans.
Just a couple, I’m sure you guys can think of more but its just to say that the NHL has to stay mainly Canadian for it to be as fun as it is.
Just a side comment: I was in Switzerland last year and I would go see Fribourg play hockey and guess who was the best, most hardworking player? A CANADIAN. And don’t say well no duh, cuz if he really is that good, then he would be in the NHL. So just goes to show you that Canadians are more willing to work hard no matter what level of competition they are at.
February 24th, 2007 at 1:03 am
The other thing to note for the future is that the culture is changing yet again. The Ottawa-Buffalo game yesterday is just the beginning. The owners have essentially already indicated that there is no more carte blanche for goons going after the marquis players. Even though, the rules won’t officially change until next season. The Sabres showed yesterday that the players have already accepted this change, and will not stand for it anymore. Good for them! The Canadiens now need to both generally size and toughen up. Who do they have who could handle Neil and his ilk? Downey ???
Do up your seat belts! Hockey is going to get interesting again.
February 24th, 2007 at 1:06 am
How’s about this one:
Kovalev to Nashville for Forsberg. Samsonov and Rivet to Phoenix for Laraques, and of course Rivet Ninnima to Hawks for Aucoin and a case of Molson Dry….and of course we let Gainey’s and Carbo’s contracts lapse….
February 24th, 2007 at 1:06 am
Yes I found it bad that it injured a player and the hit was intention for sure. But since it was legal I say it 100% acceptable. No way should it be banned to hit with shoulder. The sport has already been less physical because of the new rules by Bettman… don’t turn it into a more sissy sport by taking away contact altogether!
February 24th, 2007 at 1:12 am
Then soften-up the shoulder pads a little like Don Cherry said
February 24th, 2007 at 1:14 am
Ok maybe but I still think players just need to keep their heads up. Would of never happened if he hadn’t been head down
February 24th, 2007 at 1:14 am
Rob,if that would of been Crosby that Neil took out, what would you say about it ?
February 24th, 2007 at 1:23 am
Habz4EveR:
I think that you might be missing my point. Legal and acceptable are two completely different issues. Legal is defined by the league while acceptable is defined by the team. Do you remember the Habs of the 1970s? They would fight over lots of stuff that was technically legal, but was completely unacceptable to them as a team (ie. even looking sideways at their goaltender or Habs’ marquis player.)
Anaheim leads the league by far in fighting majors, and their GM is former NHL disciplinarian, Brian Burke. Do you see what I am getting at? I often think that the Carolina series last year was lost when the Canadiens did not respond to Justin Williams high sticking Koivu. What would have happened if on the very next shift all six Canadien players on the ice had dropped their gloves like Buffalo did yesterday? Unfortunately, we will never know.
It is time for the Canadiens to again start defining what is acceptable, and not just being lorded over by what is legal. That is what makes a winning team.
February 24th, 2007 at 1:27 am
That Neil has perfected that move to the point he could change a 7 game series in the Sens favour and coach Murray tells him to do it !!!There’s only one way to stop that **** a la Pierre Bouchard vs Dave Shultz.
February 24th, 2007 at 1:37 am
And then there was Larry Robinson pounding the **** out of big bully Shultz as-well, it was a sight I’ll take to da grave.
February 24th, 2007 at 1:37 am
Xhabsfan:
Neil has done this stuff many times this year… including to Koivu. It is one thing to be hard hitting, and another to try to cripple a marquis player. Twenty years ago, this stuff didn’t happen to players like Drury and Koivu because the teams did not allow it.
PS. Two things that you should know about Crosby. One, he is from Cole Harbour, NS (ie. Home of Cam Russell) where being able to fight is a pre-requisite and two, he has superior balance and leg strength than most NHLers. One of these days, he will probably surprise you if he drops his gloves…
February 24th, 2007 at 1:45 am
Ya ,he’s a good canadian lad no doubt about it.
February 24th, 2007 at 2:02 am
Furthermore, since the owners just held a meeting and agreed on this issue last week. I would love to see Neil try a stunt like that again with Briere next game because that would give the NHL just cause to make him the first example of their new philosophy.
That’s a muggs game! Start violating “the unwritten code” and see where it gets both a player and his team. If Neil wants to be a tough guy, he should go out and drop his gloves with Peters.
February 24th, 2007 at 2:22 am
Well ,the only thing that’s going to stop Neil in my opinion, is Neil really getting a real good shitkikking. If your willing to give one are you willing to take one Neil?
February 24th, 2007 at 2:45 am
As I said, it’s a mug’s game! Neil has now crossed a line, and has drawn attention to himself as a marked man. Ottawa can talk as tough as they want, but they aren’t. When your toughest player is your goaltender, you are in trouble!
That game should be really interesting. I am expecting Peters will drop the gloves with Neil first. Once Neil is out of the box after that fight, Mair will likely have a go at him. Gaustad will likely pick up thirds in a rematch of an earlier fight with Neil. Neil will likely be too busy defending himself to consider trying to find time to blindside Briere.
The Habs should also decide on their matchups against Neil for the next Ottawa game as payback for his attempt to injure Koivu earlier in the season.
February 24th, 2007 at 3:01 am
The Hab tough guy list sucks the bone.Last time Neil beat up Komasarik and that’s a point I’ve been trying to make for a long time now,THE HABS NEED A REAL TOUGH GUY !! And let’s not forget the Downey vs Brashier joke
February 24th, 2007 at 3:12 am
I know! I know! The memory of Downey’s bout with Jesse Boulerice is just that. A memory. Downey doesn’t seem to fight very often anymore, and he wins even less often. Downey’s mouthing off at Crosby on how to play hockey after the last Pens game was a true lowlight in Habs history if you ask me. You really have to wonder if he has anything left to offer the Habs.
The Habs not only need a real tough guy to protect their marquis players, but they need to generally improve their overall team toughness.
February 24th, 2007 at 3:25 am
Habs need a couple of marquis players so the tough guy they don’t have ,has someone to protect,did I get that rite? Anyway they just announced they are trying to unload Laraques ,grab him Bob ,please………
February 24th, 2007 at 4:08 am
Georges Laraque’s stats : Born 1976,Montreal,6′3″ 245 lbs,56 games:5g-17 a-22 pts +7, if acquired ,promises to beat the f@ck out of Neil……
February 24th, 2007 at 10:26 am
Hey JOshtm;
you’re living in the past man!!!!!!!!!!!
I keep hearing this sening down Lapierre nonsense in December. Ohhhhhhhh he had 4 pts in 4 games. INcluding a empty net goal and a assist that really shot not have been consideres an assist. Not that I am downnplaying his 4th line contributions this year(although his shot is pathetic and he has less playmaking vision tehn Ryder) his contributions to teh team are not great enough to determine our fortunes. Get back to reality man and throw out those roaches.
February 24th, 2007 at 10:27 am
WE WILL NOT WIN THE CUP THIS YEAR BECASUE LAPIERRE WAS SENT DOWN TO THE MINORS FOR 6 DAYS IN DECEMBER.
February 24th, 2007 at 1:33 pm
If Alex Kovalev is the teams most talneted player then why does he only have 38 points? Oh right, cause he dosen’t care!
He’s a cancer and he needs to go.
February 24th, 2007 at 2:03 pm
Guillaume is a healthy scratch today. Does anyone know if this is the first time he’s been a healthy scratch this year?
February 24th, 2007 at 2:15 pm
GOOD JOB YOUNG GUN LINE. SLOPPY SLOPPY SLOPPY.
February 24th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
SLOPPY
February 24th, 2007 at 2:21 pm
1st time for Lats as a healthy scratch. But definetely well deserved. He has become too conplacent just like the other rookies he