Bleacher Report - Articles by Miah D.

Montreal Canadiens: Mike Cammalleri As Captain, Anyone?

Miah D. — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:12:48 -0500

As the Montreal Canadiens’ famous day of December 4^th is drawing closer; there is one thing that is still missing—yes, apart from a winning team, a Captain.

The General Manager and the head coach want to take their time to assess each possible candidate so they make the right choice. But if we keep the current pace, we might end up days away from the trade deadline still with three As.

A few weeks ago, we have approached a few possibilities.

Despite a much scrutinized arrival with the team, Scott Gomez now seems to be carrying the weight of his contract.

A very confused Peter Parker once had to learn that “with great power comes great responsibility.” Equally, Gomez now knows that with a great paycheque comes great scrutiny.

And if you fail to impress fans with marvellous puck handling and restless efforts; you fall into the other category: the “mistake” category.

That is when you make your boss and the organization look bad; but you are the one under the spotlight at the moment so you take the hit.

Right before his injury, Gomez was on a five game dry streak. Count in the game against Toronto and make it six. This season, he has 11 points in 23 games. Glen Metropolite has 12 in 21!

At 27 games, we are closing the first third of the season. His salary divided by three, Gomez should be making around $2.6 million. With his stats, it would come down to around $236,000 per point.

Let’s say the team names Gomez as Captain. With all the fuss he is already undergoing for his slow season start, pressure will double in size and cruelty in no time. As the ultimate voice and face of this team, it will be as if he had to build a gigantic ship to save us all from 2012!

Come to think of it, it is almost what Gainey is expecting from Carey Price.

Personally, I would suggest Mike Cammalleri.

A few weeks ago, the head coach Jacques Martin had nothing else but words of praise towards the 5’9” left wing. “He understands what it takes to play here. He loves the Canadiens and he takes it very seriously” said the coach.

Alright, anyone on this team could be applicable to that declaration; probably even Sergei Kostitsyn.

But if we are looking for that one player who could step up on the ice as he can do in the room; it might be him.

Let’s take the game against the Washington Capitals last Saturday.

Different opinions and perspectives were used to analyze that game. On one side, we can say that such a crimpled team has been able to steal a point to the amazing Capitals. Let’s call it a good psychological victory.

And then, there is the Cammalleri’s point of view. He expressed how the team has been battling for the win. Not zero point, not one point; but two.

Of course that is the very least to expect from athletes, to win. But he could just have simply said “we are proud of what we have done, and we will keep on working hard.”

Cammalleri brings in that go getter attitude; the one that says ‘get the win, screw the rest.’

Now that the infirmary is starting to clear up, probably that Gainey and Martin’s decision process will too.

This article has been done with pieces of information from RDS.ca, Yahoo!Sports

Montreal Canadiens: Giving Jacques Martin A Piece Of The Cake

Miah D. — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:09:49 -0500

Prior to the game against the Columbus Blue Jackets yesterday, Ken Hitchcock was praising the Montreal Canadiens coaching staff for the fine work it was doing with the team.

I think I have just been too caught up into everything that is negative around our Habs, that I did not realize that Jacques Martin and his assistants were doing a fine work, indeed. Very fine.

I mean, take a look at this team.

Let’s say Brian Gionta is the engine of the car, Scott Gomez is the wheel, and Andrei Markov represents one of the front tires.

So now we basically have a car, without an engine, a wheel, and a tire. The car is slowly leaning to the front and it seems all hopes are quickly fading out, with 20 passengers on board.

But coach Martin found a way: He decided to "Flinstone" it. He got everyone to get their feet out through the bottom and start walking. And here we are still moving.

Call it the energy of despair, or pure luck; they are actually doing okay.

It must have taken a great deal of inspirational speeches and game plans to get this team going with a 4-1-1 record since Gionta’s injury.

We as fans watch the team quickly loosing parts like a tree during the fall, but the management seems to find whatever way they can to keep pushing through the pain.

Columbus coach Ken Hitchcock was right—they do deserve lots of credit for the recent success of the team.

By the way, I found it interesting how the coach cites some of his players during his post game interviews. It is like he is taking notes so he could brag about what he got his third and fourth liners to do! On a more serious note though, it must be quite a reward for those guys.

On a more team oriented matter, the general urgency brought by so many injuries forces the players to give more. After all, they are all on the same boat!

Adding to that, there are of course the Hamilton kids coming up who are bringing the extra-sparkle thanks to their show off performances.

They might be here just to fill in some spots; but the idea of leaving a mark remains the same.

Now that the flowers have been thrown, and the pats on the back have been given; it will take the coach another deal of speeches to warn his squad about the dangers of overconfidence.

Just as Babe Didrikson Zaharias once said, “Luck? Sure. But only after a long practice and the ability to think under pressure.”

So here’s to our “Flinstoned” version of the Habs; and may they keep running through the traffic!

Go Habs!

BREAKING NEWS: The Montreal Canadiens Trade Guillaume Latendresse

Miah D. — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:26:18 -0500

We have previously wondered what were Bob Gainey's biggest moves since he came into office with the Montreal Canadiens.

Some have talked about Alexei Kovalev, some about Carey Price, but here is another one that might top some charts: Guillaume Latendresse is no longer a Canadiens.

The hype surrounding Latendresse has always been reportedly associated with his birth certificate.

Drafted 45th overall, his arrival with the team has been surrounded by enormoys scrutiny. What has followed has not met fans and the Organization's expectations. Today, Gainey decided to take a decision.

In return, the Habs get Benoit Pouliot from the Minnesota Wild.

Benoit has been drafted fourth overall in 2005, but his statistics in the NHL have not lived up to the expectations either.

Probabilities are he will join the Habs farm team, as the big club recalled Sergei Kostitsyn. So for those who have been wondering why in the world Tender was still so highly praised in Montreal; well today is your lucky day!

This is good for those who thought that Gainey was non-professional to the point of keeping a player just because he is a Quebecer.

This isn't as good for we have no idea what Pouliot will provide for this team. Granted, Tender hasn't been productive either; but if Pouliot is condemned to stick in Hamilton, it was basically a Latendresse vs. Kostitsyn trade.

Well, Go Habs!

Montreal Canadiens Week 8: The Good, The Bad And The Injuries

Miah D. — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:26:07 -0500

The Montreal Canadiens closed their eighth week in a less painful way than many had anticipated.

The apprehension regarding the two last games was so strong, that it sounded as if the team “Banana split” from the Garage league of Goone-land was going to face an NHL team.

The Good.

A few points are quite encouraging from last week’s challenges. Bob Gainey can now at least close one eye when he sleeps at night.

Let’s start with his goaltender.

The game against the Nashville Predators seemed to have brought some confidence and grit back to Carey Price. He is 3-1-1 at his last five starts, and allowed only two goals per game.

Protecting this kid as if the sun could set him on fire, Gainey is finally recovering the Price to whom he gave the number one spot.

However, I would not go as far as shouting at every street corner that “Price is right” since we never know of what this team is capable doing; but it is a good start.

So good, he has actually earned the second star of the week in the NHL.

Then, Andrei Kostitsyn with his four points in three games. I understand your skepticism; three games of hard work does not make up for the 17 scoreless others.

He has been stellar against the Detroit Red Wings, and Mike Cammalleri could not be happier. Kostitsyn’s talent is undeniable; and as it has been said many times here on Bleacher Report, Jacques Martin might want to keep the communication flow going strong for the sake of the team.

And knowing that famous cliche, if anyone can stand up and help the team out of this mess with all the injuries; that would be AK-46.

The Bad.

On a more complicated side comes Guillaume Latendresse. It is hard to address this case without offending anyone; but seriously, does he look like a first or second line player?

Apart from the game against Carolina, Tender hasn’t reached more than 08:36 ice-time since November 5th.

Watching “l’Antichambre” on RDS last Friday, I saw some of the analysts explaining how hard these times are for Latendresse. With a reportedly very complicated family situation, (baby, etc...) he is definitely not at his best right now.

But my question is, what is his best?

The expectations towards Latendresse have risen out of the roof. After all, just like we have talked before, we have among us a Quebecer who has been drafted right after Sidney Crosby in the QMJHL’s draft. So could anyone please define Latendresse’s true duty among this team?

Georges Laraque. So big Georges is finally back from his trip to the infirmary. Talking about an unlucky player...

Playing only 33 games last season due to an injury; he has only ten under his belt this season and might even get sidelined again, by decision of the league this time. Indeed, the enforcer will have a hearing Monday morning regarding the knee-on-knee contact he had with Detroit Niklas Kronwall.

Following the 2008 playoffs, Montreal seemed to not stand a chance against tough teams. And Laraque’s signature the following summer could have deserved a parade on Sainte Catherine – but the street was already damaged from the first round riot.

Travis Moen dropped the gloves a few times there; but now that he is trying to assume a bigger role due to the injuries, he might as well sew his gloves to his jersey; which brings us back to BGL.

Martin surely needs all of his players to fill the blanks left by the injured ones; but if the roster was complete, the traffic on the last line means that Laraque could sit out some games once in a while. For $1.5 million, it is a high price to pay for a seat in the press box.

The Ugly.

The injuries, again with the injuries. This team is falling apart like a castle of cards; and the tricky part is that one injured player means more work for another, raising the possibilities of being hurt as well.

Talking to another fan, I was saying that two of the top players were injured. And calmly she responded, “it is normal, they are the only ones who play!”

Right now, of the initial roster that Gainey carefully put together at the start; two top D-men and two first liners are sidelined, among others.

Now, if Kostitsyn goes back to his walk in the desert; we do not even have a complete first line.

The latest RDS updates from Monday's practice designate Moen-Metropolit-Pacioretty as the second line-up. Uh oh!

All that being said, the Habs can walk with their head held high coming out of that week; let’s just hope they will keep watching their steps...

Go Habs!

Montreal Canadiens: Bob Gainey Needs to Let Go of Carey Price or Jaroslav Halak

Miah D. — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 02:23:12 -0500

Our folks have taught us to think first before we speak, so we do not send the wrong message. But some messages are just meant to be wrong.

The fuss over the goalie controversy provoked by Allan Walsh a few days ago truly reflects the susceptibility around hockey in Montreal.

That was one heck of a gutsy twit; but then again, coming from an agent whose client is constantly trying to get out of the shadow, anything is possible.

Let’s face it; some days must be frustrating for Jaroslav Halak.

In 2007, number one goalie Cristobal Huet suffered a groin injury that was going to put him on the sideline for the second half of the season. So the team recalled Halak to back-up David Aebischer.

But because of Aebischer’s poor play, Halak started 16 of the 21 remaining games. He posted a 10-6 record during a critical playoff race and kept the Habs’ hopes alive until the final battle.

One summer later, the 2007 training camp came.

After winning the Calder Cup with the Hamilton Bulldogs, 19-year-old Carey Price turned many heads; including the most important of all: GM Bob Gainey.

Numerous questions were, and still are, raised concerning the proper development of a 20-year-old whose future is to carry a team on his shoulders.

A debate divided Montreal in two; there was the Carbonneau side and the Gainey one.

The head coach stressed that Price was not ready to graduate in the big club. But the GM was set; this kid was to be the future of this organization.

Gainey apparently thought another year in the AHL would be a waste of his talent. Even more, six more months as a back-up goaltender would be a shame!

With Halak second to Price, the GM expected to have a healthy competition between his young goalies. After all, nothing helps you dive off the board better than a push in the back.

However, there was going to be some collateral damage involved.

Gainey rubbed two rocks together; eventually starting a fire.

It is such a fairytale story to have a 20-year-old rookie handling the toughest job in the NHL. But that won’t make him as experienced and mature as a veteran goaltender; which according to his recent season, are two things Price needs.

I do not question his talent, but I do doubt the rest.

It has been said so many times before and it needs to be stressed again: Price needs a veteran back-up. An experienced goalie who will provide him with some ‘I-have-been-there’ talks.

At 24, Halak hasn’t been there. His first priority is becoming a number one goalie; not helping Price remain one...

What Sidney Crosby and Guillaume Latendresse Actually Have in Common?

Miah D. — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:23:04 -0400

The Montreal Canadiens will visit the Pittsburgh Penguins on Wednesday, in one of their 82 “true tests” of the season.

The Mellon Arena will host the matchup between the Pens plus Sidney Crosby, and the Habs plus ... Guillaume Latendresse.

If you are trying to find out what is wrong with that sentence, let’s go back in time to solve this nonsense.

It is the 2003 QMJHL’s entry draft. The Rimouski Oceanic selects for first overall a 5' 11" center who previously set a record of 72 goals and 110 assists in 57 games in Minnesota. The Oceanic picks Sidney Crosby.

The second pick went to the Drummondville Voltigeurs who picked a 6' 2" native of Quebec, leader in goals and assists at his high school the previous season. Drummondville selects Guillaume Latendresse.

The following year, Crosby got 54 goals and 81 assists in just 59 games. On the other end, Latendresse posted 49 points in 53 appearances; but eventually managed 161 points in 116 games through the next two seasons.

Drummondville GM Michel Georges described him as a “franchise player”; while his coach, Dominic Ricard called him a “complete package”. In other words, he is the real deal, the icing on the cake, the must have, “THE” player; brief, you got my point.

The 2005 NHL Draft finally came.

Proud of his 303 points in 121 games during his two years with Rimouski, Crosby was drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Montreal first drafted Carey Price, then Latendresse as 45^th overall.

Then Montreal started the Latendresse frenzy: The young French Canadian who was picked right after the famous Crosby in the QMJHL is now a Canadiens de Montreal .

Although he didn’t make the team right away, 2006 was his year of revelation. With five points in six preseason appearances, he earned a three-year contract with the team. He was among the very few players—in fact three—of the 2005 second round to make the NHL that year.

Although Latendresse was expected to become a local hero in Montreal, these past three seasons left many people sceptic about the 22-year-old right winger.

We have heard it all.

Tender doesn’t skate fast enough. Tender looks like he is carrying a bag of pucks on his back. Tender doesn’t hit enough. Tender doesn’t score enough. Tender slows down the plays. Tender looks lost... Tender doesn’t make the saves; oh wait, that is Price.

Even NHL Legend Patrick Roy criticized his arrival with the team, saying that the Habs only signed him to fill the French Canadian quota. On Latendresse’s first goal, Roy laughed “He finally touched the puck!”

The pressure on Latendresse’s shoulders might not be as much as, say what Carey Price has to endure as a goaltender; but as the number of French Canadian players quickly took its toll over the years, he sure was noticeable.

Coming into tonight’s game, he has 83 points in 220 regular season games; a bunch of fans and a bunch of haters, but that came with the territory. Sidney Crosby has 408 points in 301 and, well; a Stanley Cup.

And yes, those two actually got drafted on after the other in the QMJHL!

This is a new season, and so far he seems to be improving one game after the other; and has recently earned a spot on the second line against the New York Islanders.

But it sure has been a long way since the QMJHL’s draft day...

Sources:

2005 Prospects at Hockeysfuture.com

Sidney Crosby’s biography at SidneyCrosbyfans.info

Tell Me Montreal Fans, What Is It About That Price Guy Again?

Miah D. — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 01:31:56 -0400

Hearing the RDS announcers—and the entire NHL—going gaga over Odrej Pavelec during the Montreal’s match up against Atlanta; I could not help but remember the fuss about Carey Price during his rookie year.

Was it his impressive 6 ft 3? Was it his unshakable cool? Was it his laid back, yet funny, yet mysterious personality?

It had got to be something. Because boy, were we sold early on that kid. Come to think of it, maybe too early. Yes, we were gaga over him.

Of course his Del Wilson Trophy as the WHL goalie of the year, his World Junior Championship Tournament MVP, and his Calder Cup championship with the Hamilton Bulldogs all in 2007 did help. We have to give credit to this shy BC native who coincidently also became the first goaltender to bring the Calder Cup back to the farm team since Patrick Roy.

Impressive isn’t it?

Here is a kid who is talented like some of us have never seen before. He breaks records, he is promising, and for once; he is a Montreal Canadiens prospect. Got to love that kid!

But it was not all fairytale.

By the time we were ready to pass him the torch, he was burnt.

How? No one really knows; the finger pointing isn’t over yet. But it all started when a too confident General Manager decided to throw him into the lion’s den.

I guess it is like getting engaged. After so many disappointments and heartbreaks, you finally find someone who corresponds to most of your standards. So you throw yourself head first into that relationship with all your energy and heart.

However, such a commitment deserves time. But time is already on Gainey’s back instead of his side.

Time will tell, did we patiently say then; watching rookie mistakes with so much compassion. Two years later, it seems we are repeating ourselves.

Jack Todd had this to say about him in the Gazette a few days ago:

“Think about it: Had Jaroslav Halak played like Price has played going back to the all-star break, he'd be in the AHL right now. If he had behaved as Price has behaved off-ice, he'd would have been traded away.”

The man has got a point.

Indeed, Price’s season start looked promising at first; before going on a downfall like the special units of the team.

Not that he was the only one to blame, but a few saves here and there wouldn’t have hurt.

That being said, despite the Habs being back on the W-side with Jaroslav Halak; if Price starts against the Islanders, I wouldn’t be surprised.

With all the struggles he has gone through; Carey Price apparently still remains, for many fans and for Bob Gainey, the No. 1.

So what was it again about this kid?

I guess it comes back to the commitment itself. Price has been chosen to be the number one goalie of the Montreal Canadiens; and although I have the utmost respect towards Halak and his amazing patience, if Price is the one then he is the one.

Now, get back to me when he will be traded...

Why the Montreal Canadiens Can Benefit from Underdog Role

Miah D. — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 14:37:55 -0400

The Montreal Canadiens’ current situation has given reason to the many skeptics who anticipated a painful season start following the team’s summer changes.

Jacques Martin’s crew has been surprisingly wandering without a direction and identity so far in the season, with their fifth straight loss in just seven games. Surprisingly, really?

Snow in Madagascar is a surprise; American Idol getting Ellen DeGeneres as judge is a surprise; but our dear Habs looking for the light at the end of the tunnel, not so much.

And yet, hearing the boos at the Bell Center as the team was battling with a few minutes left in the game made it look like Montreal was supposed to be THE team to beat in the NHL.

Granted, the additions that have been brought during the summer surely look amazing on paper. The players that Bob Gainey signed all have more than six years of experience in the NHL; which clearly shows the sense of urgency to bring success to a team that has been lost for so long.

But with the major makeover they just underwent, should we really expect a quick recovery?

Fans are certainly entitled to expect the best; for the sacrifices we fans have made for our team, don’t we deserve the finals every three or four years?

Aren’t we impatient just because we want to push them to become greater? Aren’t we there to motivate them?

Fine.

But I personally hardly see anything motivating in booing your team at their second home game of the season.

There is a bright side to everything; as for Montreal, coming into this season as underdogs will take some pressure off the team’s shoulder.

With a new coaching staff and a goalie who seem to be losing and gaining the fans' hearts with a blink, this first season half should be exciting.

Is it frustrating? Duh. After all the fuss that we have been fed, oops, fed ourselves regarding a stronger defence, a scoring offense and a more mature goaltender; it is tough for the pride to see five straight losses.

But it is one thing to aspire for the high honours; it is another to blackmail the team with humiliating cheers if they do not deliver.

For a change, let’s look at the bright side. Clearly, they are not coming as favourites into this season; and for the sake of the their relation with their fan base, it might be better this way.

Montreal Canadiens: Keeping The No.27 As The "Kovalev 27"

Miah D. — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 21:51:11 -0400

Montreal Canadiens Georges Laraque confessed to the Gazette that he approached the Canadiens Management to ask for a number switch.

Having always worn the no.27, he has been forced to change to no.17 when he joined the team; since a certain “Artist” already had it.

Call it superstition, or just coincidence; but Laraque’s first season as a no.17 was far from what we expected.

First, a groin injury had him miss the entire 2008 camp, as well as the first few games of the team. He thankfully made the roster for the home opener, but has been sidelined again after only two games.

The saga that followed was a mix of an on-and-off groin injury, combined with occasional healthy scratches. By the end of the season, his grand total was 33 games; meaning that he was being paid around $45, 000 per game.

Anxious to have a decent season, the Canadiens enforcer asked the Organization for the no.27; which should be logically available.

But the team decided to keep it as Kovalev 27 instead of Laraque 27.

It is a usual business for a team to be dealing with the fans’ anger and resentment regarding decisions that affect their “favourites”. The Habs Organization did not escape the fans' reactions following Alexei Kovalev’s drama during the off-season.

At first, it had to be the Habs’ fault. How could they let the Artist go without fighting? How is it possible that he hasn’t been Bob Gainey’s top priority?

But the world of Hockey is not made of candies and ice cream, and Bob Gainey had to make a decision; no matter how painful it was going to be.

Kovalev has made Montreal’s winters and summers for a few seasons. Perceived as a generous man involved in the community, his on-ice reputation did not always match those qualities.

Acquired from the Rangers, he has been seen as Bob Gainey’s biggest deal. However, some foes with the Organization and the fans came along the way to make it look like a regrettable decision.

From lazy to heart-less, Kovalev went through so much criticism; when the player himself looked like a misunderstood kid who just wanted some attention.

Things eventually became smoother, going as far as considering him as Saku Koivu's potential replacement. Unfortunately, Bob Gainey’s wish list for the team could not depend on only one player.

On a brighter side, the support given to Kovalev during those times has hopefully shown the other and sweeter side of Montreal fans.

The Montreal Canadiens Organization decided to give Kovalev's fan base another one of those we-think-of-you gifts; keeping the “Kovalev 27” as it is ... for now.

Source: Habs Inside/Out

Three Words For The Montreal Canadiens: Patience, Tolerance, and Hope

Miah D. — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 20:21:46 -0400

It was February 10^th, 2008 in Edmonton, AB. The Canadiens had just suffered an eighth loss in ten games. The latest defeat came at the hands of the Calgary Flames.

One postgame interview after the other, Guy Carbonneau’s dejection almost got him to lose his mind.

“I do not understand,” declared the then head coach, a few weeks away from his demotion. There were no answers and so many more questions. The team looked like a ship lost at sea, and clearly about to gain water.

All the hopes of an amazing centennial celebrating season were quickly fading away. The team's playoff contention started to blur, and all the things we were sure of the year before, we rejected.

Then Guy Carbonneau and his staff took the Habs bowling.

Now, the outcome of such decision was as risky as kayaking without experience in dangerous waters.

If the team had succeeded after the bonding experience, Guy Carbonneau would have been a genius. Everyone would have talked about the famous Montreal Canadiens coach who became a legend by turning his team’s fate around through ... bowling.

Unfortunately, the kayak bumped into a rock and everyone made fun of the idiot who took it.

It is tough to be a head coach.

With just five games under his belt, it is still early to assess the new Montreal head coach Jacques Martin.

But if there is one thing we probably all have noticed already, it is that the coach is no joker.

From the yelling at Sergei Kostitsyn during a preseason practice, to the post-Vancouver humiliation punishing practice; the head coach has been sending a clear message to players and the entire city of Montreal:

He is not here to play around.

The 2-3-0 record that they bring home for the home opener doesn’t say everything about the team, either. It is one thing to evaluate each player individually, but as a team, we first have to take into account a few facts.

Although some of them already teamed up during the past, creating chemistry in a brand new team is not an easy task. The Montreal Canadiens have lost eleven players and the returning ones are, on average, 25 years old.

Only two who have been with the team for more than five years.

Also, let's not forget that despite the amount of pressure and responsibilities on Carey Price’s shoulders, he is still the fourth youngest player of the crew at 22.

Now with a new goalie coach, he might require his own adaptation time as well.

Although it is never too early for the coach to install a good work ethic that looks promising, we have to prepare ourselves for some down times this season.

Montreal-Toronto: Presenting Public Enemy Number One

Miah D. — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:05:06 -0400

Any Montreal Canadiens' matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs is always one of a kind, with fights here and there—and as tradition has it, lots of penalty minutes.

But a new condiment has been added to the mix, which made the overall taste of that first season game additionally special.

It is that type of condiment that surprises at the touch of the lips, and depending on how it is handled, can leave an aftertaste.

Tonight, the special flavor to the season opener is named Mike Komisarek. The once sweet taste that Montreal fans used to enjoy during his stay with the team automatically changed to bitter when he joined the rivals Maple Leafs.

Komisarek’s new fans must certainly enjoy this big defenseman, laying hits around the ice and imposing an impressive physique right in the nose of the opponents. Now, they must love him more.

The intensity that the No. 8 is displaying on the battlefield has made its way around the league, building the reputation of a physical player, which is one thing the Leafs won’t complain about.

But when comes a time when too much intensity becomes a threat to the well-being of your team, you have to take a breather.

Out of the nine penalties that have been served to the Habs, six belonged to Komisarek, two of which helped the Habs score.

Tonight’s aftertaste has been saved by Carey Price’s stellar performance, who made 43 saves. Otherwise, all that we would have remembered from this season opener is chilli hot Komisarek running after everyone.

Sergei Kostitsyn’s departure has put a silence note on the Mikhail Grabovski’s case, of course until he finds another partner to dance with—which should not take too long.

Until then, no worries, Komo seemed to have mastered the art of making enemies fast.

Montreal Canadiens Preseason: Habs Shoot and Score with Eager Fans

Miah D. — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:40:34 -0400

It was the moment all fans were waiting for, the return of the dear Montreal Canadiens.

Among the newcomers, Head Coach Jacques Martin decided to dress Mike Cammalleri, Scott Gomez, and Jaroslav Spacek. Among those who will possibly start the season in Hamilton, goalie Curtis Sanford was also in uniform to succeed starter Carey Price midway through the game.

One preseason game certainly does not decide an entire season, but there is no better way to start than on the right foot.

Gomez (1-0), Cammalleri (1-1) and Spacek (0-1) all had their names on the scoreboard. Promising right winger Matt D’Agostini (1-0) also finished the game on a high note with the third star, and team high six shots on goal.

Different sounds animate the crowd at the Bell Center. There is the Coldplay song, “Fix You” on which the players hit the ice. There is “Vertigo” by U2, which replaces Simple Plan's "Generation" as the team's goal song.

Of course there is also the goal horn: finally the sweet sound of a hit against the board which reflects the level of intensity on the ice.

Yesterday, Guillaume Latendresse proved that he intends to make the most of this new season. Midway through the first period, he hit Ville Koistinen along the board, which had 21,273 fans cheering “ooooh” at the Bell Center.

Latendresse, or Tender, has been much criticized in the past for a misuse of his abilities. Being a 6’2” 230 lb. right winger, he was expected to be a hit machine and impose himself as a physical player. However, it has been a painful admittance that the kid lacked some speed.

But a new season announces new chances, and who knows, this one might be Tender’s coming year. We could have called it a “comeback”, but it is not as if he ever really left— he was simply just never there.

Another player also decided to take every chance he had to step out of the crew. Not that he ever had any highlights in the past, on the contrary, he had plenty. Most of them were just for the wrong reasons.

Ryan O’Byrne’s start with the team has been a roller coaster of anecdotes that would have been funny if they weren’t about one of ours. From an animated rookie dinner to a goal in his own net, O’Byrne is the living proof that no matter how long you cover your face on the ice, it won’t hide you from the boos and woos of thousands of fans.

With his place on the team already in the hot seat, those mistakes had his confidence drop from small to almost nothing.

Now it seems, he is back for a fresh start. So it was in a brawl against Greg Campbell that he won the fans’ hearts back, declaring in the post game interview that “it felt nice to hear them support me”.

Questions, however, still arise regarding his destiny with the big club. After all, Mathieu Carle is among those we should not forget, as he is also waiting for his turn after two previous rookie camps that ended with injuries.

The Ottawa Senators, minus Alexei Kovalev, will visit our new edition of the Habs on Friday night. Brian Gionta, Travis Moen, Paul Mara and Hal Gill are expected to be in the lineup.

Kovalev will reportedly be playing his former team on Saturday, as the Canadiens end the back-to-back meeting with the Sens.

Go Habs!

Montreal Canadiens: A Fifteenth Second Chance

Miah D. — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:28:35 -0400

In a very emotional and touching speech, George Gillett passed the torch to Geoffrey Molson and his family to succeed him as owners of the Montreal Canadiens. Despite the fact that the entire process is not complete, today's press conference certainly marks the end of an era and the start of a new one.

Gillett, who has been head of the team for a little more than eight years, wasn't short on flattering words when it came to describing his journey with the Montreal Canadiens Organization and its fan base. Describing them as the "best years" of his life, he did however express his regret and presented his apologies as the ultimate objective was not obtained, that is, a Stanley Cup ring.

The American businessman also ensured that despite being painful, his decision to end his "love affair" with the team had nothing to do with the Liverpool Football Club that he co-owns with Dallas Stars owner Tom Hicks.

The press conference was held at Laval, where the team had its annual Golf Tournament as an official kick off to the 2009-2010 season.

With training camp just around the corner, the new coaches and players will be under much scrutiny. Among those coming back, one player in particular will once again have to live up to the high expectations and pressure that have been placed on his shoulders.

Indeed, all eyes were on Carey Price as he stepped on the practice facility's ice for the first time this fall. The attention is just a hint of what is ahead for the number one goalie whom new head coach Jacques Martin has given his trust.

French humorist Guy Nantel joked in one of his latest shows: "Carey Price's talent, everybody talks about it but nobody has ever seen it" which harshly reflects the fuss surrounding the young goaltender.

Price's first two seasons were filled with highs and lows, mostly promising starts concluding with painful ends. And what is more painful than being eliminated in four games by the long time rivals Boston Bruins?

Perceived as mentally and physically ready, Price is seen as the future of the team, especially by GM Bob Gainey. It began well for the goaltender but injuries and controversies got in the way. Being just 22 years old, there are still things to be figured out.

A happy worker is a productive worker, so it was important for the team to put all possible tools at the disposal of its young goaltending duo. While the team shopped for a new goalie coach and hired former Panthers squad member Pierre Groulx, Price reportedly received a visit from the head coach himself in Western Canada during the summer.

But patience is once again the primary word, as hard as practicing it will be.

Seasons are different, but the pressure remains the same. For a fifteenth time, the Montreal Canadiens will get a chance to redeem and to avenge. Here's to hoping that the new team, coaches, and management continue to carry the torch well.

Go Habs!

To check out tournament's picture gallery, courtesy of the Montreal Gazette, please click here.

Bob Gainey: "Alex Who?"

Miah D. — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:26:39 -0400

The offseason brings new chances for teams to rebuild, improve and sometimes redeem themselves.

Beginning July 1, the only thing that is predictable is that nothing will be.

Time does fly.

A year ago, the pressure and the expectations were at their highest. The Habs just completed their best regular season in more than a decade, and that amazing record fooled most into believing that experience was the only missing piece for the playoffs run.

One fired head coach, numerous injuries on key players, and a humiliating first round later; reality has struck so hard that the centennial became a season to forget.

“Shnoot” happens.

Being the Montreal Canadiens General Manager requires a real taste for challenge and risk; and perhaps an unbeatable self esteem. For fans with such passion, the man who makes the final decisions could bring the Canadian Olympic team and it still would not be enough.

But someone has to do the dirty work, and the determination to keep going reflects his respect and devotion for trying to make this team better.

It has been said so many times that free agents would never come to Montreal because of pressure. The Media and the fans surrounding the team can sometimes give the impression of vultures around humans in the desert: waiting for the first one to fall.

That is when Bob Gainey looks like a magician getting famous names to become Bleu Blanc Rouge.

But decisions imply sacrifices: when new ones come, the old ones have to go; and suddenly he looks like a senile old man who doesn’t know what he is doing.

Saku Koivu and Alex Kovalev’s departures have been painful to most fans. The Captain has been through highs and lows, and remained with the team during its hardest times.

Kovalev, nicknamed “The Artist,” also had a major impact on this city. Some fans have even been showing their support to the no.27 through petitions and rallies to keep him in Montreal.

For once the voices were heard in favour of a player, but it was unfortunately all in vain. And as much as it hurts me like a knife right deep in my heart, each word turning it into the wound, increasing the bleeding; Kovalev is now an Ottawa Senator, and it is time to move on.

In the desperate search for the evil man, all fingers pointed at Bob Gainey; who after all was just a businessman in the business of Hockey.

Now, new questions await the people who did not swear to stop supporting the team once Kovy would be gone; I believe they are called “real fans.”

Who will be the next Captain? Who will be that Defenceman that Uncle Bob wants to sign? Is there a generous, patient, cheap, advising, and giving veteran goalie, willing to warm the bench? Is the price of the beer ever going to decrease at the Bell Center? What will happen to Alex Tanguay?

Moreover, while the Toronto Maple Leafs are slowly giving the impression of growing in size and weight, the Habs “measurements” are still questionable. Only time will tell.

The bids are still open, and we have all summer.

Go Habs!

Montreal Canadiens: Bob Gainey Strikes Again, Now What?

Miah D. — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 13:14:20 -0400

The Montreal Canadiens have made the first step towards their offseason makeover that consists of finding a new owner, possibly a new GM, a new head coach, and new player contracts. Radical, isn't it?

Bob Gainey admitted to La Presse last week that the Organization advised him to focus on his duties despite the fuss surrounding the team’s ownership. So he went ahead with the nomination of a new head coach: Jacques Martin.

Now, a few criteria had to be part of the potential candidates’ resumes.

Is he bilingual? He is. Does he have a coaching experience? He does; with three NHL teams including almost a decade with the Ottawa Senators. Has he ever been far in the playoffs?

Let’s just say that he missed the playoffs once with Ottawa, brought them to the Conference finals once, but missed the playoffs again during his entire trip with the Florida Panthers.

And since the insatiable fans that we are have to ask the deadly question: no, he hasn’t won a Stanley Cup yet.

The opinions are divided regarding this new hiring, with Jacques Demers judging it as an “excellent choice” due to Martin’s sense of work ethic and discipline; while ESPN’s Scott Burnside said Bob Gainey “missed the mark by a wide margin."

Burnside questions what was in Bob Gainey’s mind; which has been what we all wondered since the beginning of times. After numerous attempts to decipher the Bob Gainey’s decision process puzzle, we decided to settle down with our popular saying: only time will tell.

However, Coach Martin’s sense of discipline will benefit the Montreal Canadiens which had to deal with enough controversy to give the team an allure of The Young and the Restless.

The coaching staff has now to find, well, the staff. Kirk Muller and Doug Jarvis are still in office but there is little chance that they will remain assistant coaches this season. And now that Mario Tremblay won’t be back with the Minnesota Wild, should we expect a return of one the most controversial coaches of the Habs’ history to assist Martin?

Goalie coach Roland Melanson has however learned last Monday that his stay with the team has come to an end as he failed to polish Bob Gainey's most precious treasure.

Price, who held for the first time an NHL full time job as starter for an entire season, had his fair share of struggles on and off the ice.

A spot is then now open for “I am a goalie coach, get me out of here” contest, to make the GM's diamond shine despite the rough.

The first name that comes in mind is Anaheim Ducks’ Francois Allaire. Allaire was Patrick Roy’s mentor during his American League years, and graduated with him with the Montreal Canadiens to take on a Stanley Cup that very rookie year.

Allaire was also behind Jean Sebastien Giguere’s Stanley Cup in 2007. He is under contract with the Ducks until June 30, but it would be surprising that the team lets him leave since they have their own precious stone to take care of in Jonas Hiller.

Don’t we all regret that Patrick Roy has confirmed his stay with the Quebec Remparts? He would have given us enough material to practice our second National sport, speculating!

About our soon to be UFAs, Bob Gainey declared on RDS a few days ago that he still hasn’t started any contract discussion with the ten players who are about to be free agents this summer. Apart from Alex Kovalev’s captaincy and contract rumours, we haven’t heard much about that sensitive subject.

Notes from aside

The race for the Canadiens’ next owner is still on, but took another turn when Serge Savard decided to temporarily withdraw from the run once he learnt about the Molson family’s interest into the team. Recall that Quebecor’s Peladeau is also a potential buyer.

Guy Carbonneau told RDS that he recently had a discussion with Bob Gainey, but still hasn't found answers to some questions. The players did not have answers to their questions either when he was behind the bench, so can we call it even?

Serge Savard said that if he had bought the team, he would have offered the head coach job to (drum roll) Jacques Demers. That would have been a glimpse of the glorious years, just minus the glorious roster.

For The Last Time, Eat Your Vegetables!

Miah D. — Sun, 10 May 2009 20:43:47 -0400

Coaching a team and taking care of kids can be similar in a lot of ways. Children are like young players looking up to their coach, who is going to teach them the tricks of the game, and pass on the legacy of the sport.

My mother had five players to develop in her team, and she would jokingly refer to us as her “tiny hockey team,” with her being the head coach and my father the referee.

Unless my father's name is Jon, hers Kate; and with eight kids they have a show that is bringing thousands of dollars per episode, five kids wasn’t a piece of cake.

We are four boys and one girl, and the elders would practice hockey tricks on the younger ones; tricks such as hits and slapshots for that matter.

She even eventually bought us paper plates since we were trying accuracy shootings on her regular ones!

But we had so much fun, and despite the stress, she loved watching us.

My mother always believed in sports as a way of family gathering. Every one of her five kids is different from the others; but if there was one subject that we would agree on, it was sports; especially hockey.

For her, sports has always been a healthy way to escape from everyday life, and create a balance between entertainment and work.

She also made us understand the most basic values through sports. She taught us to respect people that we do not necessary agree with; because opposition creates challenge, and without challenge, there is no progress.

She taught us the importance of hard work and always taking a chance; there won't be any goal if there is no shot.

She told us to make the most of every opportunity, but always within the rules: there is nothing that can be done from the penalty box.

Just like a coach behind the bench, she gave us a tap on the shoulder whenever we did right. She would still do it otherwise, reassuring us that it was alright as long as it wouldn't happen again. And if it happened again, she would have repeated the same trick!

She always made sure we were standing for each other, as she never tolerated any of us selling one another behind their back. “Your family is like your team, it is all that you can rely on, she said, they will back you up during tough times. So back them up.”

She taught us to be loyal to the things we truly believe in. From our favourite team to the principles that we stand for, she said that passion will build our patience and resistance.

None of us have turned out to be a hockey player; and frankly, our hockey abilities are only worthy of Tim Hortons’ Hockey Timbits commercials; with all due respect to those cute kids.

But just like old times, our best family moments always consist of gathering around a sporting event, and we owe most of what we are to her.

Happy mother’s day to all the mommies!

Montreal Canadiens' Unfanmanship Conduct: R-E-S-P-E-C-T!

Miah D. — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 23:04:21 -0400

There is only one step between love and hate, they say. The switch from love to hate at a Montreal Canadiens game does bring up every truth of that cheesy adage.

Prior to the game, the thrill and excitement as people gather for the tailgate party is palpable, and so far, the Habs are the best team the world of sports has ever created.

Painted faces, wigs, and flags are seen everywhere: our team made it to the playoffs, and they come home for another battle that will require maximum support.

Inside, the inspiration and the energy that lift the crowd as the team enters the ice for the warm up have no possible comparison. For the next two and a half hours, nothing is more important than the Montreal Canadiens.

Tonight, we will be the better team. Tonight we will make it through, and beat those big bad Bruins.

And then come the national anthems.

It has been taught by our predecessors in how-to-be-a-Canadiens-fan class that everything that has to do with the Boston Bruins is a subject of despise.

But then, how exactly does the booing of the American national anthem represent a statement in terms of Habs-ism?

Three of the Montreal Canadiens players were born in the U.S. and grew up on Long Island. One actually scored the first goal of the night, and the other is supposed to represent a pillar in terms of defence. Oh, and he's the alternate captain. The last one won the cup with the team back in 1993, and brought a dead power play to life after the trade deadline.

Among those 21,973 fans attending the game, I do believe that there are Americans standing, sporting Habs jerseys, and belonging to Habs land as proudly as Canadians; adding to the many more who follow the team from the USA.

Nonetheless, my hat goes off to the fans who decided to respond with shushes, and started to sing loud and clear to counter attack; trying to pick up the pieces.

As the starting line up was announced, starting goaltender Carey Price – who let in five goals the game before – did not gather much appreciation from those who expected back up goalie Jaroslav Halak to hold the fort.

The disappointment is legitimate, I suppose. He has been weak, and there is no human way to be satisfied with his performance. But then, what is the purpose of booing him and/or Bob Gainey if that will do nothing to the decision?

Moreover, whether we like it or not, that player will defend the net, our net, from our side, for our team.

Now, the first period is always the best one. Regardless of the score, there are two more left so encouragement is the name of the game.

It can be a power play, a penalty kill, a face off, or an icing: the Habs have the most supporting and unconditional fans in the world. But only in the first period.

The second is a bit trickier. Tension is higher; stress, headaches, and vocal troubles start to kick in.

Then comes the third period, the deadly one, where every mistake is going to be pointed out, and the guilty man who dared to commit the fatal error is eligible for human sacrifice.

Between the “f-morons” and the “you don’t deserve the money we spend” screams and insults that have been shouted to the players, the Habs wonderland turned into a nightmare.

Watching your team lose to its most hated rivals can certainly draw anger and frustration. But aren’t fans supposed to be unconditional fans?

By the end of the game, Carey Price became the new Tim Thomas; victim of name chants and boos.

All that being said, what are the odds that if this team would win again, Price will come back to being the Messiah sent by God himself to save the most amazing team that is the Montreal Canadiens; led by the most amazing GM and Head Coach who is Bob Gainey?

You tell me.

Go Habs!

This piece is a follow up to previous articles, by other writers:
A Lesson In Class For the Montreal Fans
Montreal Canadiens Fans: Welcome Back to Bandwagon
You Stay Classy Montreal Fans

Habs' Final Week: The Statistics, the Odds, the Persistence

Miah D. — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 17:21:16 -0400

Expectations were high, disappointments were numerous, but through all that has been said and done, they are still standing.

The Montreal Canadiens are closing their regular-season schedule with four remaining battles and a blurry playoff spot. However, with the Penguins’ loss to the Florida Panthers on Sunday night, the sixth spot is now up for grabs.

Since Bob Gainey united the Kovalev–Koivu–Tanguay line, the team has gone 5-0-1; including a perfect 3-for-3 against the Blackhawks, Islanders, and Maple Leafs.

Alex Kovalev, Saku Koivu, and Alex Tanguay have scored nearly 52 percent of the team’s goals, totaling 34 points in the last six games.

Kovalev won the NHL first star of the week, with two goals and five assists in three games.

However, despite the explosion of this new first trio, a few questions remain unanswered when it comes to other lines, especially Tomas Plekanec’s.

The center player has seen more line-mates than he probably changed shoes during these last few days. Besides, Andrei Kostitsyn hasn't recovered his magic powers yet.

On the blue line, the remainder of the season as well as the playoffs will be trickier than predicted, with power play pillars Andrei Markov and Mathieu Schneider on the sideline. Markov will reportedly miss three weeks, while Schneider won't be back this year.

With Carey Price out with the flu, Jaroslav Halak did well holding the fort, allowing only three goals on 63 shots. He will face the Ottawa Senators.

The Sens had an amazing month of March with 10 wins in 15 games. Daniel Alfredsson, Jason Spezza, and Dany Heatley have always been shining against the Habs, with 16 points in five games this season.

Alfredsson alone got 91 points in 69 career games against Montreal.

The Canadiens will then take on the New York Rangers at the Madison Square Garden for their second game in two nights, facing Sean Avery and Henrik Lundqvist, who is 8-4-0 against Montreal.

The Rangers are 21-11-4 at home (the Habs are 17-19-3 on the road), but have only one regulation-time win in their last five games.

Those are must-win games for the team, considering the Boston Bruins are a major spoiling factor to this tough playoffs race.

They have lost only once to the Habs this year. Since that OTL on October 15, they have been giving Montreal four straight cold showers.

Boston won their last six games and will meet the Ottawa Senators before coming to town.

Then, the final game of this roller-coaster season will be against the Penguins.

Last month became the “March of the Penguins,” with their one regulation-time loss in 12 games. Evgeni Malkin registered 11 points in his last seven games, while Sid the Kid got 27 points in 16 games before they faced Carolina.

Montreal has been playing so well lately that they look transformed and reloaded. However, one line-up alone will not be able to carry an entire team, while Carey Price’s performance at his return remains to be seen.

The young goaltender should logically start in net for the remaining three games. He is 1-0-1 against the Rangers, 1-3-0 against the Bruins, and finally 2-1-0 against the Penguins.

It would be wrong to guarantee another perfect week; things do change fast in hockey. But trust and expectations never hurt anybody.

"Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow." - Albert Einstein

Go Habs!

The Foxes in The Hennhouse: The Uniforms Under The Dresses

Miah D. — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 23:34:29 -0400

“The great question that I have not been able to answer despite my thirty years of great researches into the feminine soul, is what does a woman want?”—Sigmund Freud

Women might have the reputation of being hard to understand when it comes to feelings; but at least in the world of sports, we want the same thing as you boys do: challenge, pride and glory.

The history of women in sports has had numerous and different shapes through the centuries.

During the first Olympic Games, women were not allowed to participate or even watch men’s tournaments. Instead, they organized their own event to honour Hera, where only unmarried women could compete.

Although time changes, and so do cultures and traditions; the battle of the sexes remains an ongoing discussion.

From Alicia Meynell who became the first woman to compete in horse racing in the 1800s to Suzy Whaley being the first female to take part to the PGA Tour in 2003; some women had to make their way to recognition through challenging the male world, the champions on their own field, and not without controversies.

We have to acknowledge, however, that the freedom our modern society offers has given women a bigger piece of the cake—letting the world witness great stories, like Kerri Strug or Louise Suggs.

Those are examples of those women who transformed the face of their disciplines; as we preach their courage and success, we can only hope for more to come.

It is a constant battle, depending on the field itself, to be accepted as part of the competition, as an equal contestant without discrimination and stereotype. It isn’t done without hard work, and every woman who has shown courage and perseverance has to be recognized.

But the gender issue hasn’t been the only controversy that has touched the world of Sports; many more problems and topics deserve to be addressed, discussed and debated.

Those two primary reasons gave life to the Foxes In the Hennhouse.

But please do not get us wrong. Although we do devote this section to get a view of the female side of the competition, men are invited to give their input andshare their perspectives.

After all, “The aim of argument, or of discussion, is not victory but progress.” (Joseph Joubert)

The Foxes in the Hennhouse was created on January 15^th, 2009 and we have been welcoming great writers and debaters from various sports fields. Our hope is to remain a place of gathering and discussions for both men and women, who are willing to share, expand their own views, and learn about those of others.

Miah D. is the proud new Community Leader of the Foxes in the Hennhouse, along with Cameon Shifflet. She is also part of the Community Leaders' "team" for the Montreal Canadiens Hockey team.

Montreal Canadiens: There Is Hope for Every Man

Miah D. — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:40:39 -0400

While Mike Ribeiro was dissing his former captain in the pages of La Presse, Saku Koivu and the Montreal Canadiens were still battling hard in a tougher playoff race than we predicted at the start of the season.

This is the time when the men will be separated from the boys.

We are season-ending minus two weeks—and for the first time since the All-Star Break, the Habs have shown good vital signs.

The body temperature: If the new first line keeps on giving and the No. 1 goalie keeps on saving, this team can be hot.

The pulse: Thankfully, the arrival of the playoffs seems to have awakened a few, but if it drops once again, we might run out of defibrillators.

Blood pressure: There is currently no better pressure than the Panthers and the Sabres.

And finally the respiratory rate: There is certainly no room to breathe anymore; but there is no fun if there is no struggle, right?

Talking about the first line—this was one of those decisions that Bob Gainey got right. It was, nonetheless, a tricky one.

Although it is logical to have your best players on the front row for the tough battles, will one give enough room for the two others?

But two wins and one OT loss later, the T-K-K line has been responding well to the desperate call from the coach and the entire Habs nation.

Indeed, nine of the 12 goals scored by the team came from the first line alone.

Now, we have seen enough this season to know that everything might crash when we least expect it, but I will take the five points with open arms.

However, it would be wrong to rely on them alone. We have to expect more consistent support from the other three combos.

It has been a busy week, and things will continue to get more intense.

The team has one game at hand, as compared to the Rangers and the Panthers. So, technically, there is still a chance to end up seventh. But who are we kidding here? This is “technically speaking!"

The Chicago Blackhawks are in town for an Original Six matchup when the Habs will once again sport their “pajama” jerseys. So, beware of those wild stripes—you might end up dizzy, or even high!

Notes from Aside

Francis Bouillon is close to a return, probably after the game against the New York Islanders. He has been out five weeks with a groin injury.

What happened to George Laraque?

Guillaume Latendresse’s hit on Henrik Tallinder was pure gold.

The Rangers blanked the Devils Monday night, while the Panthers will meet the Senators. The race is getting tighter.

Check out Mike Ribeiro's amazing goal against the Panthers!

Our video of the week, from the Hockey Day in Canada commercial:

Montreal Canadiens: Code Red! Code Red!

Miah D. — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 13:56:40 -0400

Martin Brodeur’s destiny couldn’t have been better written. The Quebecois goaltender tied Patrick Roy’s record, in Roy’s home, in front of Roy.

The entire province of Quebec couldn’t be happier that if one goalie had to make it this far, it would be “one of them.” Irony has made it even more exciting for the anecdotes lovers: it had to be against the Montreal Canadiens.

The game preview echoed in every corner of Montreal. Every newspaper was recapping his career achievements, and the amazing coincidence that a win against the Habs would be.

His father was given front row sits, so he could immortalize the event. Patrick Roy came to see him at his Hotel, and for a rare time, was part of the attendance.

It was all about him in the city; which was as much disturbing as it was exciting: I felt like he was already granted the win.

Nevertheless, he deserved the standing ovation at the end of the game for two reasons: he just made history, and he just spared the Montreal players from the usual booing sessions. Merci Martin!

It was also a milestone for another Quebec native player; who made history by taking his wife to Paris in the middle of the season back in his young and naïve days. Patrice Brisebois was celebrating his 1000th NHL game; tying him with, let’s say, Alex Kovalev.

Just when everyone thought he would remain stuck at 999, Bob Gainey finally put him in. Hopefully that will be enough to convince him to consider retirement.Meanwhile, teams like the New York Rangers were battling hard for their playoffs spot. The Rangers were in town for another one of those must-win games for both teams. The Habs let out one precious point, as they could not offer any resistance.

However, RDS.ca’s fan poll “Do you blame Carey Price for the shootout loss?” made it clear that someone had to take the responsibility despite the 22 giveaways, the 42 shots allowed, and the 60 minutes of comeback Hockey.

Price, the franchise player, just became the only player of the franchise.

With the race to the playoffs, Montreal fans had another set of emotions to deal with: Guy Carbonneau held his first press conference since his dismissal.

Looking poised and refreshed, he said a few words regarding the ten minute conversation he had with Bob Gainey. Ten bloody minutes to sum up “What? You’re not a magician? Get out of here.”

He had a few sarcastic comments at some point, but still managed to refrain himself from handing out a list of names that he believes should be jobless before him, if only life was fair.

But he is gone now, and his successor just found out that the problem is still not resolved! Oops!

So we are barely standing today, with twelve games remaining in the season, still trying to figure out the line-ups. It took us also twelve games last playoffs to aspire to the Stanley Cup, riot, and then crash.

Meanwhile, we are sinking through the standing like a rock under water. At least, one man in a Habs jersey tried to make it up, being able to hang a glass and a pint of green beer on his nose on the set of Jay Leno!

This is going to be messy!

Go Habs!

Wake Up Canadiens! The Boss is Here!

Miah D. — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:39:32 -0400

Winston Churchill said that change is good if it comes in the right direction. In most cases however—especially in hockey—it is unfortunate that we do not really know where we are heading.

But a change was necessary.

And yet, as usual, we can raise numerous questions regarding the firing of Guy Carbonneau.

On one side, this is a coach who had to build a mountain out of a bag of sand. On the other, this is a coach who did build the mountain, but just could not do it again.

Carbonneau has been able to spend a successful trip behind the bench without injuries, with an amazing Alex Kovalev and a very confident Carey Price at his disposal. The fatal second half of this season gave him everything but those.

While the players were taking turns to visit the doctor, Alex Kovalev lived the nightmare of any artist; the loss of inspiration.

Besides, the man between the pipes Carey Price, the man that Bob Gainey himself insisted on being the No. 1 goalie, is still trying to recover from an under-performance crisis. And finally, the defensive squad would let a train pass by without even noticing it.

That adds to the trade deadline message, “Do what you can with the little you have.”

On the other side, the performance that Guy Carbonneau was able to pull out of the team last year came back to bite him right on the hand. Once the team proved that it could play like a real one; expectations rose and the team could not meet them.

But the coach hasn’t been able to make the magic happen once more, and Gainey wasn’t going to take any chance with 16 games remaining before the dance of the spring. Later is better than never, so it was time to start things anew.

Had he left Carbonneau behind the bench, with one win every five games, he would have been the man who sacrificed the team for their friendship.

Had he stepped his foot down more often to contradict Carbonneau’s decision, he would have put the coach’s credibility in question in front of players who already had their share of doubts.

Now that the bomb has been dropped, that we just gather the pieces to build something new, kind words have been directed towards the former head coach; but less surprisingly, the small mistakes started to come out.

Saku Koivu said that communication wasn’t Carbonneau best quality. Meanwhile, Mathieu Dandenault praises Bob Gainey like a mighty God who just delivered him from the flames of hell, saying that the GM “has a gift of making any player feel like they are the best player in the world.”

Every player but Patrice Brisebois, who seems to be stuck at 999 games played in a Habs uniform so far!

In the meantime, AHL coach Don Lever has been brought in to bring a refreshing breeze in this old smelly locker room. He is expected to give his input in the handling of the youngsters, yes, the party boys. As for the veterans, the boss just stepped on the ice to observe and to comment. There is nothing to add.

After all, Bob Gainey's poised side can be as tricky as if there was going to be a laser coming out of those eyes, burning everybody's brain. That is his thing, you never know what he is going to come up with.

Justified or not, we can only expect that Bob Gainey’s arrival will be the spark that can get this team going for the final push, the famous push that will get the baby out!

Bob Gainey to Guy Carbonneau: "Don't Worry, Be Happy!"

Miah D. — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 23:50:03 -0500

Last Wednesday, Bob Gainey held his famous “I believe” speech in a short meeting with the media, explaining his decision to let the trade deadline pass without any last-minute adjustment.

Two losses later, I wonder if he still feels the same way.

Mathieu Dandenault, who has probably reached a new level of frustration this season, never looked this confused. The man visibly wanted to stay with his hometown team; but the press box was not what he had in mind.

By the look on his face and his hesitation, we could tell that one question kept coming back in his mind: "If I am not traded, but still won't play; what am I here for?"

The general manager’s calm regarding the current state of his team is so striking that it is almost alarming. Someone could poke his shoulder with a stick, screaming “Wake up! Wake up!” and he wouldn't even move a finger.

He must see things a bit differently.

While I see a team that struggles to find an identity, he might see a team which is strategically building itself an image of underdogs to fool the opponents.

While I see a struggling Mike Komisarek, he might see a more attack-oriented Komisarek.

But, then again, as a GM, I believe he must know what he is dealing with. If not, at least he cares enough to pretend he does. And, frankly, since there is nothing that we can do about it, it is better to set our minds on the fact that he is competent!

Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens were back in Atlanta Saturday, 20 games (7-12-1) after their last visit.

The game was reflecting the struggles they have had throughout most of the season: no determination, no chemistry, and no power play.

For a rare time since his injury, Carey Price did all he could to maintain his team in the game. In fact, he did really well.

Unfortunately, on the other hand, the scenario was so atrocious that we could only either laugh or cry. Personally, I went with the second option; when I thought that it was physically impossible to shed one more tear, I cried some more until I fell asleep on the box of Kleenex. Then I woke up and cried again.

Joke aside, it is inconceivable to watch a team aspiring to secure a playoff spot play without any inspiration.

This morning, the coach decided to go with new line-ups; just like he did all season long. His decisions are, without doubt, very criticized in the Habs nation—sometimes legitimately, sometimes not. However, when you see Glen Metropolit on the 5-on-3, you do wonder.

A few weeks ago, the coaching staff organized an afternoon of bowling, pointing relaxation as the best remedy. It did not work. This week, prior to the game against the Thrashers, the coach pulled out the whip with an intense practice. It still did not stimulate any neurons; if it did, it hit the wrong ones.

Outside the ice, along with the Underperformance Syndrome and the Virus of the Ice Time Frustration, Georges Laraque also suffers from back pains. Luckily, the latter can be cured by the medical staff. However, rumours have it that he might have to undergo surgery.

Our Habs will face the Dallas Stars on Sunday evening, with Stephane Robidas, Mike Ribeiro, and Steve Begin. Guy Carbonneau will then learn if his new magic formulas will bring their sparkles on the ice, or if, once again, his players will make him and his GM look like fools.

Game starts at 6 p.m., ET. Go Habs!

Tough Guys and Tough Heartbreaks: When Feelings Get a Concussion

Miah D. — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 21:46:53 -0500

In less than 24 hours, some NHL players will have to say goodbye to the city they have learned to call home, and join a new community. Forced to build chemistry with people they used to compete with.

So it goes.

In less than 24 hours, we will have to watch those we used to support leave, watch them make others happy; watch them being happy with others.

So it goes.

Perhaps the millions of dollars that accompany their luggage as they make their way to commercial airplanes, heading to their new office, will make all the pain and the heartbreak of departures worth it. Perhaps.

Perhaps the adrenaline of starting something new, another opportunity to do it all again, have a second chance, will disguise the disappointment felt from not being helpful enough to make a difference. Perhaps.

But at the end of the day, when all the lights are off, when those familiar walls are the only things left; almost all of them will hold the same speech: so it goes.

That is the business of hockey. They work for a boss; the organization, the team, and the fan base.

It is a job by which you are worshiped by millions of fans. Where you can procure your and your family financial security, and where you wake up every morning to go “play a game."

But just like in a fairytale, when the Prince has to fight the dragon to find his Princess, every story has its dark side. For every piece of gold, there is a price to pay.

Even the greatest of them had to go through the same obstacles, not without pain, not without sorrow; which holds an even scarier truth: nobody is safe.

So it goes.

These are people who have been trained to take hits two or three times a night. To come back to work after being hit by a 6 ounce piece of vulcanized rubber right on the face. To wear skates again after life threatening injuries. To know by heart and the hard way the meaning of the words “get over it."

But as the time comes that goodbyes have to be said, when the “is” becomes “was,” tears fall, pain takes over and for a moment, the uniform fades away letting their weak side appear.

So in less than 24 hours, part of their life will come to an end. The things that they learned to love, the fans that they used to thank, the teammates that they used to protect, will be replaced by new ones. More fun, less fun, but new nevertheless.

But as the old cliché keeps renewing itself over and over again, one trade after the other, it is after all "a new start, a second shot." What else could it be?

Picture: Steve Begin, traded by the Montreal Canadiens to the Dallas Stars; talking about the transition and thanking the Canadiens fans. (RDS.ca)

Miah is one of the three Community leaders of the Montreal Canadiens. She also co-hosts, along with Matt Eichel, Habs All Out Radio: all about the Montreal Canadiens!

The Guy Carbonneau Rule: Keep Your Feelings to Yourself, 'Cause I DON'T CARE!

Miah D. — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 10:47:55 -0500

After all the controversy, rumours, and troubles the Montreal Canadiens have been through, three wins a row seem like a complete miracle. The coaches' reactions after the wining goal were not lying: Those are two beautiful two points there.

It has surely been a heck of a week for everyone, so intense that Bob Gainey almost showed some emotion.

After the Kostitsyn brothers’ affair made the team look like a street gang, hearing Laraque’s complains regarding his ice time almost made me smile: We are back to talking Hockey.

The communication channel between the coach and his players seem to be dealing with interference; resulting in some frustration from both parts.

The three way communication they use somehow reminded me of high school, where nobody tells things directly to whom they may concern; but had to look for a third party to share them with.

Now, never underestimate the power of the Medias in Montreal. The men with the pens and the microphones can conduct our brains into believing things that do not exist.

Once Laraque said that he “wouldn’t be surprised if traded,” his days with the team virtually came to an end.

Only virtually, since Bob Gainey’s mastermind could not be attained by the Journalists hypnotizing waves; which is also why he gets to be the General Manager.

Although Laraque learnt the hard way how a few too much words can turn into a declaration against Humanity; saying things the Samsonov way has never been appealing to the coach.

“I am paid to help the players, replied Carbonneau; not to be liked. I want to be respected.” Fair enough; especially when your player adds the If-I-knew-I-would-not-be-here speech; then again he sounded like being trapped into performing in a women’s ballet spectacle.

We did complain last year that the missing piece was the physical aspect, but we convinced ourselves that this team was fast and talented enough to get over that.

But then came the playoffs. Hockey might have never been this painful for players like Tomas Plekanec and Mark Streit; which brings us back to ‘BGL’.

With a few days away from the trade deadline, God knows what Bob Gainey has in mind. Phone calls are never scarier than during the trade period; Michael Ryder did an interview in the Canadiens Magazine to talk exclusively about that famous February 26^th, 2008; when the only call he got was finally his father in law's.

Trade periods are also painful. Although Steve Begin’s departure was written in the sky; it still hurts when it actually happens.

Bob Gainey and Begin already talked last week; regarding any available possibilities that would help the player. In other words, “Steve, we love you but you can’t stay.” It is almost as if they had closure.

Closure is good in any ending relationships, but it doesn’t make break-ups easier. After all, it has been six years.

On the bright side, this can be a new start for the grinder. Unless he aspires for a career as a journalist, watching games from the press box complicates matters for any player who comes to the end of his contract.

Begin opened his wings and flew away; and Glen Metropolite made his way to the Montreal Canadiens dressing room. A former Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers among us, let’s beat the heck out of this guy!

Is it me or the Habs keep getting older?

So far, Bob Gainey surprised more than a few, but for at least two of his decisions, he hit the nail right on the head.

After his two day break, Alexei Kovalev seems to play an inspired Hockey again with six points in his last three games.

And Schneider, dear Schneider: the living proof that determination is ageless. So are Patrice Brisebois’s brain cramps and turnovers.

Three wins in a row are great. Four would be better; especially against the San Jose Sharks and Claude 'Pepe' Lemieux. Some might say that chances are slim, and frankly watching the Sharks’ record this year, they are even anorexic.

But let’s not be negative, shall we? Just like Carey Price, let’s just sit and watch.

Go Habs.

Miah is one of the three Community leaders of the Montreal Canadiens. She also co-hosts, along with Matt Eichel, Habs All Out Radio: all about the Montreal Canadiens!

Montreal Canadiens: When Things Are Out In The Open

Miah D. — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 13:26:51 -0500

The joy of coming to play for the Montreal Canadiens should be worth bearing with all the media pressure and circus.

Put aside the love provided by endless numbers of fans, it is a team with history and pride.

But when controversy shows itself, knocking on the door, every hockey player's dreamland can turn into a real nightmare. '

That is when popularity bites back, bites hard, and hurts.

Adding to the already enormous pressure that the players endure, their not-so=fine behaviour off the ice becomes more dramatic with every loss. And Jean Perron was not going to let that one go.

“Those guys are partying without limits. The Organization should control them more. They are having problems.” (Free translation, pardon the dialect)

Among others, he named Carey Price, Sergei Kostitsyn, and Chris Higgins.

Ouch!

With such a comment, Coach Perron is tied with Pat Burns and Guy Lafleur for the he-dared-to-say-it contest. In fact, figuring in the same league as Guy Lafleur in this particular discipline is already an accomplishment in itself.

From “they are a team of fourth liners” to “if they don’t perform, change them,” Lafleur has earned himself a name in the domain of controversial comments. But we have to give him credit for the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

Guy Carbonneau’s noble response reflected his loyalty towards his players. “I find it really misplaced. I lost a lot of respect for Jean Perron.”

However, between us, who are we kidding? Who has ever believed that a 21-year old, who earns around a million per year, would stay home wisely with daddy and mommy?

We are used to wars of words whenever the team has troubles. However, it makes us always grin to hear actual names—unless it is about Alex Kovalev. He got used to it, and so did we.

This does make Perron more credible, granted. But it also sounds cheap.

Everyone has been through that. Coach Carbonneau once admitted that he got caught past curfew, and has been sitting for the next game.

It happens even to the greatest. Guy Lafleur wasn't an angel.

Once again, Price did not hold his emotions for himself. “I don’t care, it is my personal life.”

Jean Perron wouldn’t care either if you hadn’t lost seven of your last nine games.

Meanwhile, rumours are intensifying regarding Alexei Kovalev’s possible departure from the Bleu, Blanc, et Rouge. But just like all rumours, some parts aren’t logical.

According to La Presse, Bob Gainey has been trying to shop Kovalev for about two weeks now—which times perfectly with the current situation.

But then, if you shop a player and try to get the best deal for your team, announcing publicly that he plays so bad that he doesn't have the right to be around the players doesn't really fit in the picture. “Here, he is a bad player who earns $4 million, please take him.”

Notes from aside:

The Canadiens better wake up soon. Florida, Buffalo and New York are all tied with 66 points.

According to RDS, Mathieu Schneider will play with Andrei Markov.

A psychologist said on La Presse that “Price needs someone who comes to him and tells him that he is there to help, and not to steal his job. Halak is not going to do that.” Let’s speculate about trading Halak, and have a veteran goalie to assist Price. Is Marc Denis the man for the job?

The latest rumor: the Flyers are reported to be willing to shop Martin Biron. Any takers?

*Still on the party theme, I will leave you with the advertisement of the moment. Go Habs!

Bobby, Bobby, My Dear Bobby

Miah D. — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 22:33:43 -0500

Gutsy. Gutsy would be the best word to describe Bob Gainey’s latest move.

The Wise Man just advised the Artist to take some time off to rest his talent, for his own good and the others. In other words, the boss just showed us who is boss, by sending Mr. Whiner home in order to give everybody a break.

Put aside the screams and the curses that I let out when I learnt the news, I still believe in my naïve fan’s heart that it is all for the team’s own good.

Isn't that is all that matters?

While some have already shaped up a draft of the trade possibilities that will soon involve the AK-27, I was left wondering what on earth were the stories behind this piece of information that is still hard to swallow.

I remember a year ago, Cristobal Huet was supposed to play against the Atlanta Thrashers. Guy Carbonneau held one of the most illogical press conferences in the History of the Montreal Canadiens, justifying the sudden decision to have Price start.

And then, right after lunch, the new broke: Huet was sent to Washington.

Was Gainey’s press conference as illogical? If so, my poor heart would not hold it together. My dream season would turn even more tragical than it already is. Sigh.

But let’s not lose focus, shall we.

My first thought went to Saku Koivu. Has he gotten so much into the skin of this organization that whoever pretends to run after his throne will be shown the door?

My second thought went to Guy Carbonneau. Has he gotten enough? Are they through? Frankly, between Carbo and Kovy, the choice is easily made for Bobby!

And then, my epiphany of the year: what’s with all the speculations after all? What if he was just really tired?

Either way, this is a statement from the coaching staff, and the organization itself: whoever you are, the team has no time for you to decide whether you want to play or not.

I respect the organization for such firm decisions. However, I despise the choice: if you want to win a game, use your best chances. There is no way to find out if he is going to perform if he is not even on the ice.

So that makes Bob Gainey’s justification speech even more funny-strange-illogical-nonsense. And that makes me even more miserable.

But we shall see.

Bob Gainey started the week strongly: Matthew Schneider is back to his old loves. Patrice Brisebois and now Schneider, sounds like the comeback of the New Kids on the Block! “I’ll be loving you foreveeeeer…”

The power play was so poor that it took someone who mastered it since Max Pacioretty's birth. My hat’s off.

Who knows, Schneider might be the bunny which had to appear from the magic hat! Nobody ever guaranteed us that it had to be a young bunny, as long as he gets the job done before he breaks his back!

The bottom line is, we can say whichever we want about Bob Gainey, but no one can ever object that he is one gutsy General Manager. It might be unconsciousness, it might be extreme wisdom; either way, he always leaves me stunned.

Honey, Let's Take a Break!

Miah D. — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:53:31 -0500

Breaks. How exactly are they considered solutions? Aren’t they a way to escape from reality? Aren’t they a way to look away from what seems to be disturbing right in front of our eyes? By the way, isn’t that called fleeing?

In the world of Sports, as in our every day lives, taking breaks, taking time outs, seem to be expected as the new revolutionary solution. Ultimate, no; but expected to work, yes.

Growing up, studying Mathematics problems, I have always been told that if I was struggling to find the answer, going out to take some fresh air might help. "Take some fresh air", "clear my mind", "take a time out", whatever works.

The answer was always in there.

It is common to say that someone who is too overwhelmed by his problems, or issues, might be so absorbed that he might not see the simplest solution.

That applies in relationships. Relationships as in “Ross and Rachel”. Once Ross is gone, she realizes what she just did. However, in this particular case, it turned out not that pretty. Well, break or not break, referring Kovalev’s $4 million contract to a TV series isn’t even accurate, but you know what I mean.

In the scale of the all-time solutions that consist of not looking at the problem itself, taking a break would come right before “going back to the basis.”

You take the break, you clear your mind, you come back and you start all over again.

So well surprised was I, learning yesterday, prior to the false code-red of the “press conference of the year”, that after the 6-2 loss to the Calgary Flames Monday, the players went bowling.

The better new was that the coach initiated the journey, and that everyone had fun.

“We were laughing, we were teasing each other” said Guy Carbonneau. Remarkably funny and painful at the same time, objects of tease must have been abundant. After all, for a rare time, we are looking at a real team loss.

Not the cliché, not the expression we use when we do not want people to point at our favorite players; this time, it is true.

It is not just the goaltender, it is not just the players at the blue line, and so on; it is everybody altogether. And at times of struggles come existential questions.

What if Gainey had done this differently? What if Carbonneau hadn’t done that?

Just like the last playoffs raised numerous questions on Huet’s trade, losing streaks can alter perspectives as well. Fine.

But just as doubts might rise among fans, the worst thing to happen is that they will rise among players. Once the Flames started to put on their hockey show, Montreal just stopped playing. Halak started to receive puck after puck, shoot after shoot. “Is this what hell looks like?”

For some, this might be perceived as an excess of trust. Seriously, think about it. They haven’t won decently in a long time, and what they do: they go bowling! What about locking them in a room for 24 hours, just themselves, so they can look into each other’s eyes, and say things as they are?

But in the end, Bob Gainey’s wisdom is now Guy Carbonneau’s. The talent is there, the answer is there; they just can’t work it through.

Montreal Canadiens: Yes Coach, It Can Get Worse!

Miah D. — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:03:34 -0500

How can the Montreal Canadiens’ malaise feel less painful? As we say in good Quebecois, “We are in the shnoot.”

The situation starts to get old, and so do Alexei Kovalev and Saku Koivu.

“Where to start?” said Canadiens head coach Guy Carbonneau, after the team’s 5-2 loss against the Maple Leafs Saturday. It’s a bit of a sarcastic comment, but alarming. After all, truth hurts.

It hurts as much as those five goals the team gave up to the Maple Leafs.

The first goal was like your sweetie pie telling you that you two need to talk. Suddenly, sweetie pie doesn’t smile anymore, and doesn’t joke anymore. You don’t know the end of it, but you are still hopeful that it is because you have beer on the couch.

The second goal is when she starts her sentence by a sigh, looks down, and goes, “Look” and your first name. You still hope for the couch story, but each word digs a bigger hole.

By the fifth goal, you are devastated. There is nothing left to do, there is no more explanation needed. The hard truth is right in front of you and sweetie pie just turned out to be not that sweet anymore. Carey Price just turned out to be not that confident anymore.

And then, the deadly question—“Where did it all go wrong?”

Kovalev declared that the “effort needs to be constantly there.” It is as classical as it is “not you, it is me.” You look at the situation, and all you hear is “Blah, blah, blah.”

That is right, we need you to keep talking Kovy, because your eloquence is what is going to bring success to this team. We also need you to keep being fancy. I mean, they all know your tricks and you mostly get caught, but it is still pretty to watch.

But let’s not blame, shall we? Yes, it is hard, yes it hurts, but let’s be courageous. Once again, we made it through this last decade; we came out even stronger and even prouder.

Oh, even I start to “blah-blah-blah” too.

Pathetic.

Here are some random facts, but are facts nevertheless:

Carey Price has allowed four goals or more in five of his last nine games.

Against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Price had to face 41 shots.

Josh Gorges is -10 since the start of the year.

Kovalev had zero shots on goal against the Buffalo Sabres.

If we take Price as the ambassador of the goaltending, Gorges as the reflection of the defense, and Kovalev is the most talented forward of the team; the above facts tell a lot about the situation.

Here are other facts that are unavoidable:

Montreal is currently fifth in the East. They are one point ahead of the New York Rangers, two points and one game in hand ahead of the Buffalo Sabres, and five points ahead of the eighth spot held by Carolina. The Hurricanes have two games in hand though.

Calgary has a player named Jarome Iginla, who leads his team by all means with 58 points. Not far behind comes Mike Cammalleri with 50.

What about Montreal? Well, its leading pointer has 41, and he is a defenseman. Its leading scorer underwent surgery last week.

The San Jose Sharks are in town on Feb. 28th.

With all the due respect that I have for Carbonneau, the more he comments on the situation, the more I wonder if “Illusionland” hasn’t overtaken him.

“Carey has got too much talent to not get out of this,” Carbonneau said. Yes but no. He hasn’t got enough to rely on it alone.

“We can’t be worse than this,” the coach went on. Still yes but no. Look at Pittsburgh, and they have a Crosby and a Malkin. Look at Ottawa, and they have a Dany Heatley.

Are we doomed yet?

Of course not, but we are in the “shnoot!”

Go Habs!

Picture: Habs Inside/Out

Montreal Canadiens: Time to Panic?

Miah D. — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 13:19:21 -0500

For the first time in nearly two years, the Montreal Canadiens have dropped four games in a row. Before calling them rude names, let’s all breathe in and out, relax, and keep track of what is important—the season is still rolling.

So breathe in, breathe out, take a drink, sit, and calm down.

Yes, it is quite frustrating. The All-Star Weekend fairytale just turned into a nightmare. Five goals allowed in the last two games is quite bugging indeed.

As usual, let’s keep our cheerful, positive (or maybe just fool) spirit—we are still in the playoff run.

We have lost four games in a row, our No. 1 goalie looks shaky for a No. 1 or even a No. 2, we take stupid penalties. The playoff picture still includes us.

Pointing fingers would be the easiest way to go. It is cheap and non-professional, it doesn’t hurt, and it is fast. Once again, let’s keep our cool and fun-spirited minds—this is the closest to success we have ever gotten in more than a decade! At least, from an expectations outlook.

However, the question is quite simple—why? What is it that doesn’t work? The passion should be there, the talent should be there, the fun should be there. They start to play, looking like they are in pain. They have a “get this over with” attitude.

Is it Guy Carbonneau and his line changes? Does it affect the players and the team chemistry at a degree that the coach doesn’t seem to realize? There is no perfect winning combination, of course, but stability isn’t a bad thing either.

Is it the return of the injured players? After all, the youngsters did quite well, and the team had an average run despite the ankle problems, back pains, and the broken arms. In the latter possibility though, it is better to keep it simple and call it coincidence. There is no solution, other than hope for the best.

We can’t tell them not to come back for the sake of chemistry, can’t we?

Is it that the team relies too much on Carey Price? I would agree with Carbonneau—the goalie needs to be able to steal games now and then.

The answers seem to be locked in some place that the forum ghosts are trying to discover.

On a higher note, since we are positive people, Alex Kovalev seems to roll at a high pace since the MVP Award at the All-Star Game. Unfortunately, the razzle dazzles—although always impressive—are less enjoyable without the goals.

If there was a “razzle dazzle cup,” we would have had a shot. Unfortunately, those are features found only in “Kovalev and Price in Wonderland.”

The reality is obviously much harder.

"Success is a science, if you have the conditions, you have the results." - Oscar Wilde

Go Habs!

Miah is one of the three Community leaders of the Montreal Canadiens. She also co-hosts, along with Matt Eichel, Habs All Out Radio: all about the Montreal Canadiens!