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Sunday, January 11, 2015

The Flaw in Picking the All-Star Teams

9:17 AM Unknown 3 comments

How does one decide who is worthy of playing in the NHL All-star game. Do you go by individual stats, popularity, or the strength of teams?

Popularity rules when it comes to picking the starting line-ups, as the starters are determined by fan votes. Largely, you see the same players year after year, such as Sidney Crosby or Patrick Kane. Occasionally, you will see a less popular player get voted in if they are having a stellar season

For the rest of the line-ups, GM's and other NHL executives pick the players. Of course, a big challenge is representing all 30 NHL teams. A lot of times, players that should make the team due to individual stats are left off the roster because of the need to pick players from other teams. For example, PK Subban was not picked for the 2015 all-star game. In my hometown of Vancouver, the Sedin Twins were left off the roster. Looking at this issue from a team performance standpoint, 1st place Montreal has only goalie Carey Price going to the all-star game. On the other hand, Columbus, currently in 12th place has three players playing in the all-star game. Yes, I recognize that Columbus is hosting the all-star game this year. However, that should not be reason enough to send three players to the all-star game. I think individual stats and position of team in the standings should carry more weight than merely hosting the game.

There is still a chance Subban could be added to the roster if a player (defenseman) pulls out of the game due to injury, personal reasons, or simply needing to recharge the batteries. Congratulations to Carey Price for making the all-star team. He is a great choice to represent the Habs based on another outstanding start to the season. Price has been the MVP of the team, allowing the Habs to win games they should have lost.

#GoHabsGo

A Habs Fan blogging from BC

Game 41: Canadiens vs Penguins

10:44 AM Unknown No comments

#MTLHockey Preview

Match Up

The Canadiens (26-12-2) wrap up the first half of the season Saturday night when they host the Penguins (24-10-6). The game starts at 7:00 and will be broadcast on TVA and CBC.

This is the third and final game this season between the Habs and Pens, they've played a game each in their home building already this season. After losing 4-0 in Montreal, the Habs got a measure of revenge last week when they beat the Penguins 4-1 in Pittsburgh. Max Pacioretty and Tom Gilbert each had a goal and an assist in that game.

What to Watch

Carey Price had an off night Tuesday against the Lightning, allowing four goals on 16 second period shots, but the Habs netminder is having a career year this season. With 22 wins in 33 games, a 2.20 goals against average and a .927 save percentage, Price is on pace to match or set personal records in each of those categories.

Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are always players to watch when the Penguins come to town. The duo has 88 points between them, 45 for Malkin and 43 for Crosby, that's more than the top three scorers combined for the Canadiens (Pacioretty, Alex Galchenyuk and PK Subban combine for 86 points so far).

What's at Stake

The Habs and Pens are both chasing top spot in their division after falling behind the Lightning and the Islanders respectively. The Canadiens are four points behind the Bolts with three games in hand while the Penguins trail the Isles by a single point and have played one game less.

Who's Out

P.A. Parenteau (head) is skating on his own, but doesn't appear ready to rejoin the team yet. Special mention as well to Jarred Tinordi who was injured in a fight Friday night while playing with the Hamilton Bulldogs.

The Pens are missing Patric Hornqvist (lower body), Olli Maata (upper body), Blake Comeau (wrist) and Pascal Dupuis (blood clot).

What Else

Not only did Montreal's seven game win streak come to an end Tuesday night against the Lightning, their perfect streak of wins after scoring first was broken as well. The Habs went into Tuesday's game with a perfect 16-0-0 record when scoring the first goal, but after they opened the scoring, four straight goals from the Lightning ended that streak.

The Question Mark

What are your thoughts on fighting in professional hockey and do the Habs need more muscle in their lineup?

Tonight's Show

Join host Steven Hindle along with Kosta Papoulias and Rob Elbaz for the Montreal Hockey Talk Pregame Show as we go live at 6:00 to preview the Canadiens and the Penguins.

Game 39: Canadiens at Penguins

12:40 PM Unknown No comments

#MTLHockey Preview

Match Up

The red-hot Canadiens (25-11-2) are in Pittsburgh on Saturday to close out their five game road trip against the Penguins (24-9-5). The game starts at 7:00 and airs on TVA and City.

This is the second of three meetings between the Habs and Pens this season, and the only one in Pittsburgh. The season series wraps up in Montreal next Saturday. Beau Bennett had a goal and two assists and Marc-Andre Fleury made 27 saves to power the Pens to a 4-0 shut out victory over the Canadiens the last time these teams met.

What to Watch

Michael Bournival had to wait until the 38th game on the Habs schedule (his eighth of the season) to score his first goal of the year, but didn't wait nearly as long to pot his second, earning his first career multi-goal game in the NHL on Friday despite playing less than ten minutes.

PK Subban had three assists on Friday, inching him closer to Max Pacioretty for the points lead in Montreal. Pacioretty is still on top with 29, but Subban is right behind him with 26 points in 38 games.

Sidney Crosby earned four assists in Pittsburgh's 6-3 win over the Lightning on Friday giving him 42 points in 35 games on the season. New acquisition David Perron should be in uniform Saturday night for the Pens. Perron had five goals and 19 points in 38 games for the Oilers this season.

What's at Stake

With their win in New Jersey on Friday, the Canadiens moved into a tie with the Tampa Bay Lightning for top spot in the Atlantic Division. Now they have a chance to leapfrog the Penguins for top spot in the conference. A win in Pittsburgh would also give the Habs a perfect road trip, extend their winning streak to six games and keep them undefeated in 2015. No pressure.

Who's Out

P.A. Parenteau was knocked out of Friday's game in New Jersey when he took a hit to the head from Tim Sestito, and may not be ready to play on Saturday.

The Penguins currently have seven players on injured reserve: Blake Comeau (wrist), Pascal Dupuis (blood clot), Patric Hornqvist (lower body), Olli Maatta (upper body), Paul Martin, Zach Sill (upper body), and Scott Wilson.

What Else

The Habs are in the midst of a five-game win streak, the longest current streak in the NHL. What's more impressive is that the Habs have won four of those five on the road, with a chance to close out a perfect road trip by beating the Eastern-leading Penguins. With an 8-1-0 record in their last nine games, the Habs have surged up the standings after a rough start in December, moving them into a tie for fifth place with the Chicago Blackhawks for the best points percentage in the league.

The Question Mark

The Canadiens have plenty of options on defense, but Michel Therrien has had trouble pleasing Habs fans recently. How would you set up the Montreal's three defensive pairings with what the Habs have available?

Tonight's Show

Join host Steven Hindle along with Kosta Papoulias and Rob Elbaz for the Montreal Hockey Talk Pregame Show as we go live at 6:00 to preview the Canadiens and the Penguins.

Game 20 - Canadiens vs Penguins

8:04 AM Unknown 2 comments

#MTLHockey Hockey

Match Up

The league leading Montreal Canadiens (14-4-1) are home to host the Metropolitan leading Pittsburgh Penguins (12-3-1) Tuesday night. The game is set to start at 7:30 and airs on RDS and Sportsnet East.

This is the first of three meetings between the Habs and Pens this season, and the first of two in Montreal. Last season the Canadiens took two of three from the Penguins, including a wild 6-5 shootout win to end the season series. Daniel Briere had a pair of goals and an assist in that game while David Desharnais had two assists and the only goal in the shootout.

What's to Watch

While he's seen his average ice time shrink since Sergei Gonchar became a Canadien, Nathan Beaulieu has now dressed in eight consecutive games and continues to have a positive impact. He has two assists in the last three games, including one on the Habs' first power play goal in November towards the end of Thursday's victory over the Bruins. All this despite playing a total of 21:42 in three games, over three minutes less than PK Subban played in Sunday's game versus the Red Wings alone.

With the second most potent offense in the league, the Penguins currently have four players at a point per game or better. Through 16 games Sidney Crosby (25 points), Evgeni Malkin (19), Patric Hornqvist (19), and Chris Kunitz (16) each have at least a point per game. Meanwhile in nets, Marc-Andre Fleury is top ten in the league in wins (10, 3rd), save percentage (.925, 8th), goals against average (2.13, 9th), and is tied for the league lead in shut outs with three.

What's at Stake

It's lonely at the top, but the Canadiens probably don't mind. They're on top of the league for now, but just a single point ahead of the Lightning and well within reach of the Penguins, who hold three games in hand. The Habs will look to extend their lead and keep their foes at bay for another day on Tuesday, they'll also be trying to improve their season best six game win streak.

Who's Out

The Canadiens are without Michael Bournival (shoulder), but are otherwise healthy heading in to Tuesday's game.

Olli Maatta (neck) who had surgery at the beginning of November to remove a tumor from his thyroid gland, could possibly return to action Tuesday in Montreal. Pascal Dupuis will not play on Tuesday, he's sidelined with an undisclosed injury.

What Else

With their win against the Red Wings on Sunday, the Canadiens improved to 10-1-0 against Eastern conference teams and 6-1-0 against teams in their division. As far as teams from the East go, the Canadiens have only lost to the Tampa Bay Lighting. Unsurprisingly, the Pens and Bolts also have strong records within the conference, but neither are quite at Montreal's level. Tampa has a 8-1-1 record against the East while Pittsburgh boasts a 7-2-1 mark.

The Question Mark

Approaching the quarter mark of the season, how would you grade the Habs' offense, defense, goaltending, and coaching thus far?

Tonight's Show

Join host Steven Hindle along with Kosta Papoulias and Rob Elbaz for the Montreal Hockey Talk Pregame Show as we go live at 6:30 to preview the Canadiens and the Penguins.

Pregame Preview: Canadiens at Penguins (Game #61)

8:15 AM Unknown 3 comments

Match Up:

The Canadiens (32-21-6) are in Pittsburgh to face the Penguins (40-15-3) Thursday night, fresh off a 2-1 OT loss to the Red Wings. The game is set to start at 7:00 and airs on RDS and TSN-Habs.

This is the third and final game between the Habs and Penguins this season. The Habs took the first game 3-2 at the Bell Centre, but dropped the last meeting 5-1. Carey Price was pulled from that match midway through the second after allowing 5 goals on 21 shots. Jussi Jokinen had a pair of goals and Evgenin Malkin had a goal and an assist, bringing him up to 4 points in 2 games against the Canadiens this season.

What to Watch:

The Habs only managed two shots on goal in the second period of Wednesday's game, finishing the night with 20 in close to 65 minutes of play. Brian Gionta tallied 6 shots and scored the team's only goal in Montreal's first game back after the Olympics. Peter Budaj had 28 saves in 30 shots and kept his team in the game for 59 minutes until Gionta managed to draw the Habs even.

This will be Pittsburgh's first game since the Olympics ended, they haven't played since February 7. Like the Canadiens, the Penguins have a pair of gold medalists returning from Sochi in Sidney Crosby and Chris Kunitz, both of whom scored in the Gold Medal game versus Sweden. And like the Red Wings, the Pens have an Olympic coach behind their bench; Dan Bylsma led Team USA during this year's Winter Games.

What's at Stake:

A win Thursday against the Conference leading Pens would help the Habs stay a step ahead of the Leafs, but, with Carey Price staying behind as the team traveled to Pittsburgh, the Canadiens will be in tough against one of the most potent offensive teams in the league. The good news is, Peter Budaj had a solid outing against the Wings on Wednesday. The bad news? He'll be playing on less than 24 hours rest if he starts in Pittsburgh.

Who's Out:

The Habs are missing Carey Price (lower body), Michael Bournival (concussion) and Brandon Prust (upper body). Prust has been placed on injured reserve for the time being.

The Penguins are missing Beau Bennett (wrist), Chris Conner (wrist) and goalie Tomas Vokoun (hip). Taylor Pyatt (lower body) and Joe Vitale (upper body) were injured prior to the Olympics but could return for Thursday's game.

What Else:

Dale Weise played in his fourth game as a Hab on Wednesday, and although he played the least minutes so far since joining the team, he still made an impact on the game with 5 hits. Weise's arrival coincided with the return of Ryan White from injury and the pair seemed to have formed an instant chemistry. Since the duo have been put together, the Canadiens are 3-0-1 and have allowed just 5 goals. White had 2 goals and an assist in the two games leading up to the break, which included his first career game winning goal.

The Question Mark:

Habs GM Marc Bergevin has already pulled the trigger on one deal for the Canadiens, sending Raphael Diaz to Vancouver for Dale Weise. What we want to know from you is, how many more deals do you expect Bergevin to make between now and the deadline and what is the team's biggest need?

Let us know what you think, leave a comment or send us a tweet by using the #MTLHockey hashtag on Twitter.

Be sure to tune into the Montreal Hockey Talk Pregame Show an hour before the puck drop and the Post Game Show 5 minutes after the final siren. Join the live conversation by using the #MTLHockey hashtag on Twitter.

Pregame Preview: Canadiens at Penguins (Game #50)

8:18 AM Unknown 4 comments

Match Up:

The Canadiens (27-17-5) are in Pittsburgh Wednesday night to take on the Eastern leading Penguins (34-13-2). The game is set to start at 7:00 and airs on RDS and TSN.

This is the second of three meetings between the Habs and Pens, the Canadiens have already picked up a 3-2 victory on home ice. Max Pacioretty had two goals including the game winner. After three straight goals by the Habs, James Neal scored a pair to bring the Penguins back to within one. Evgeni Malkin had assists on both.

What to Watch:

Max Pacioretty is riding a 4-game point streak heading into Wednesday's game, he's up to 21 goals on the year in 40 games played. Lars Eller has been struggling to find his game recently, he's gone 7 games without a point. Eller had 6 points in his first 3 games this season, but only managed to put up 4 points all of December.

With 68 points in 49 games, Sidney Crosby leads the league and is well on his way to his second career Art Ross Trophy. James Neal and Evgeni Malkin both missed significant action this year but are also over a point per game on the season, Malkin has 48 points in 38 games and Neal has 36 in 28. Chris Kunitz has 24 goals and 49 points in 49 games.

What's at Stake:

After an extended streak of trading wins and losses, the Habs tied with the Leafs for third spot in the Atlantic heading into Wednesday’s game. They're still comfortably holding down a playoff spot, but the Canadiens have gone from looking ahead at teams like the Lightning and Bruins to looking over their shoulders.

Who's Out:

The Canadiens are missing Alex Galchenyuk (hand) and Davis Drewiske (shoulder). Ryan White (upper body) is nearing a return but there's no indication he'll play Wednesday. With Joonas Nattinen returning to the Bulldogs after Saturday's game, Louis Leblanc was called up to the big team.

The Pens are missing Pascal Dupuis (knee), Joe Vitale (wrist), Beau Bennett (wrist), Brian Gibbons (lower body), Andrew Ebbett (ankle), Chris Conner (hand) and back up goalie Tomas Vokoun (hip).

What Else:

The Canadiens are in the midst of an identity crisis, the team hasn't put together back-to-back wins or losses since the Christmas break. The good news is, the Habs have scored power play goals in two straight games, against the Leafs Saturday and the Sens on Thursday, but they've also given up 14 goals in their last three games. The penalty kill is still a strong point for the Canadiens, but the way they've been running, it seems only a matter of time before that falters as well.

The Question Mark:

We want to hear from you, aside from the Penguins, which team do you expect to see representing the East in the Stanley Cup Finals?

Let us know what you think, leave a comment or send us a tweet by using the #MTLHockey hashtag on Twitter.
Be sure to tune into the Montreal Hockey Talk Pregame Show an hour before the puck drop and the Post Game Show 5 minutes after the final siren. Join the live conversation by using the #MTLHockey hashtag on Twitter.

Subban Wins Norris, Bruins-Hawks OT...Again.

9:01 AM Coach K 5 comments

Good Morning Addicts!!!!

So P.K. Subban won the Norris Trophy as the National Hockey League's best defenceman. Does this really surprise anyone? Certainly not yours truly.

Sure, Subban is still trying to escape the shadow of his previous misgivings, but by and large, P.K. was the best rearguard in the league at both ends of the ice. His offensive prowess cannot be reproached, and his aptitude for timely, bone-crushing hits, along with his ability to effectively manage the defensive zone was surely evident to all the love the game of hockey.

Has Subban learned his lesson, or is it feasible that we may see the cocky P.K. of old next season? In my opinion, the simple fact that he selflessly attributed much of his success to his team in his acceptance speech, while saying nothing about himself or his effort on the ice, speaks volumes towards his maturation over the past few months.

The credit for that titbit of work not only lies with Subban, but with Canadiens' General Manager Marc Bergevin and head coach Michel Therrien. You may think I'm off my rocker in mentioning Therrien, who is widely thought of as a bit of a hot-head, but having witnessed his coaching abilities in the QMJHL, as well as the work he did in pacifying an exuberant Sidney Crosby in Pittsburgh, his influence is undeniable.

Suffice it to say that P.K. has definitely earned himself a substantial pay raise in his next contract negotiations. And while most pundits may believe that Bergevin made a mistake in signing Subban to his most recent "bridge" contract, the Habs' GM did what was right. He put the ball in P.K.'s court and let him decide his own future.

Either way, Bergevin wins. He either resigns Subban to a long-term deal himself, or he can wait until the season is up to see what other GMs deem P.K.'s value to be. I don't see it even getting close to the latter before number 76 is resigned, but stranger things have happened in this town in recent years.

Needless to say, not too shabby for the #43 pick in the 2007 NHL entry draft.

Bruins-Hawks Stanley Cup Final Already A Classic

In just two games in the Stanley Cup finals, we've seen fantastic goaltending, great pace, highlight reel goals and four overtime periods. While it doesn't do much for my efficiency in my day job, this series is certainly providing an exemplary level of entertainment.

While much of #PlanetHabs hates...no, loathes the Boston Bruins, there is no denying their right to represent the Eastern Conference in the finals. Having struggled mightily against the Toronto Maple Leafs, they managed nothing short of a miracle in beating them, then cruised through the lowly New York Rangers, while sweeping the high octane Pittsburgh Penguins. Lead by goaltender Tuukka Rask, who has eclipsed the shadow left behind by Tim Thomas, as well as the KHL line (Krecji, Horton and Lucic), they have been a force to be reckoned with.

The Blackhawks, having beaten their own Achilles' heel in the Detroit Red Wings, were the class of the Western Conference and were the consensus pick to get to the finals. With limited contributions from sniper Marion Hossa and "Captain Serious" Jonathan Toews, they managed to get to this point of the backs of goaltender Corey Crawford, who has silenced his detractors, and the scoring of Patrick Kane.

The Bruins have done a masterful job of neutralizing Toews and Patrick Sharp in two games of the Final so far, and the longer games have gone, the more ineffective Hossa and Kane have become. That's not to say they don't get any scoring chances, but the Beantown Bruisers are built for the long and punishing grind that the Finals demand.

I picked Boston to win the series in seven games, and by all indications so far, that's the direction we are heading in. However, if I can ask one thing from both sides...

...SAVE THE LONG OT GAMES FOR THE WEEKEND!!!

Can Habs Afford Players With Too Much Edge?

10:08 AM Coach K 10 comments

On Thursday night, after the Canadiens were eliminated by the Ottawa Senators, I took up my customary spot in the production booth for the final post-game show on MontrealHockeyTalk.com.

During that show, Simon Tsalikis of TSN 690 questioned why the Habs didn't go after a play like Raffi Torres at the trade deadline to bolster their physical game. I took exception during the show, and voiced my displeasure of entertaining the notion of having Torres wearing the Bleu, Blanc et Rouge.

I don't have anything against tough players. I loved former Habs like Chris "Knuckles" Nilan, Lyle Odelein and Todd Ewen (to name a few) who could be physical, yet brought some game along with their truculence. They are the type of players this team needs moving forward, in order to compete in the Stanley Cup playoffs, and possibly make a run at hockey's Holy Grail.

However, players in the mold of Torres, along with Matt Cooke and to a certain extent Ryan White, are example of players who have not distinguished the fine line between physicality and borderline recklessness.

Last night was a prime example, where in the second round opener between the Los Angeles Kings and the San Jose Sharks, Torres took a run at Kings' forward Jared Stoll. Torres hit Stoll from the blind side, making the head to principle point of contact, while Stoll was reaching for a puck.

I don't have an issue with the play itself, but like the Erik Gryba hit on Canadiens' forward Lars Eller, there was no need to cut to the front of the player, and take an unnecessary risk of putting your team on the penalty kill. If Torres, like Gryba, would have hit Stoll on his lead shoulder (the one facing the direction Torres was coming from), my point would be moot.

Hitting was introduced to hockey as a way to separate an opposing player from the puck, not his head from his body. Players are taught at a young age that body checking should target the lead shoulder, the middle of an opposing player's chest or the hip.

Of course, in the professional ranks, selling the game has become more important than protecting its assets. Fans love a good open ice hit, that not only rattles the receiving player, but those watching from the stands as well.

Players like Torres and Cooke have deprived fans of talents like the Penguins' Sidney Crosby, Chicago's Marion Hossa and Bruins' forward Marc Savard, because they believe their jobs are to remove a player from competition, not simply make them pay physically for having the puck.

As a team in the process of reestablishing its franchise identity, am I certain that, to a man, the Canadiens' brass most certainly wants to address the need for more size and physicality on their current roster. However, I find it disconcerting that fans clamor for players that play with reckless abandon, without any concern for their opponents or the repercussions for their respective organizations.

Sure, we all love the acquisition of a player like Brandon Prust, who not only bring character and a physical game, but he has above-average hockey sense for a player whose primary role has always been to bring energy and help with special teams. That said, there is a point that I, and I believe the Canadiens, simply do not want to cross.

Ask yourselves: Would you prefer the Canadiens draft a young, physical player, that can mold into the type of player the organization needs, or would you prefer dealing with the track record of the aforementioned perennial judgmentally challenged?

I think you can all guess what my answer would be...

NHL Talks "Cautiously Optimistic", Markov's Gordie Howe Hat Trick,More...

8:50 AM Coach K No comments

Good Hump Day HabsAddicts!!!

On a day where nobody was expecting any type of progress in the NHL labour negotiations, it seems that some kind of headway has been made.

Both sides were reported as being cautiously optimistic , as far as any progress in yesterday's meetings were concerned. While no details have been released about the meetings, things went so well that the NHLPA held a conference call with it's members during the dinner break.

Who was responsible for leading the charge? Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review tell us that the Pittsburgh Penguins' duo of Rob Burkle and Sidney Crosby led the way.

And for those that are curious, ESPN.com's Sarah Goldstein provides us with a list of all the players in yesterday's negotiating session.

Players and owners are scheduled to meet again this morning at 9 AM, prior to the 11 AM NHL Board of Governors meetings. Gary Bettman is scheduled to speak to the media at 1 PM, however that may be delayed should there be further talks between the two sides.

Habs and Hockey News and Notes:

- Corey Collard of Montreal Hockey Talk was joined by Jay Ferrar, our own Kamal Panesar and JD on the latest Lockout Show to discuss the lockout as live updates came in on Twitter.

- Andrei Markov enjoyed another first in his career while playing in the KHL...A Gordie Howe hat trick!!! The Montreal Gazette's Dave Stubbs looks at this unique event for the Habs' Russian rearguard.

- Alex Kovalev is returning to the Bell Centre for the All-Star Classic. Brenda Branswell of Hockey Inside/Out explains.

- And to finish on the lighter side of things, CBC Sports posted an Associated Press report on how actor Mark Wahlberg challenged Tie Domi to a boxing match.

Crosby & Toews May Attend Meetings, Sabres Don't Care, More...

9:17 AM Coach K No comments

Good Morning HabsAddicts!!!

Well, this all important day has finally arrived. And while the NHL has divulged its list of attendees, the NHLPA has kept their list close to their vest.

Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Jonathan Toews of the Chicago Blackhawks are expected to be among those attending on the players' side, but the union hasn't confirmed anything yet.

To get a better understanding, Scott Burnside and Pierre LeBrun of ESPN.com explain the importance of today's meeting.

Habs And Hockey News and Notes:

- Fred Poulin updates us about the Habs' CHL prospects via The Hockey Writers.

- Olean Times Herald beat writer Bill Hoppe examines why players from the Buffalo Sabres don't want to be bothered with the players/owners meeting.

-And while you're at it, take a look at my newest What If instalment for Montreal Hockey Talk, where I ask what the NHL's motive for such a meeting are.

- With MLSE's Larry Tannenbaum involved in the meetings on Tuesday, Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun explains why the players trust and respect him.

Monday Morning roundup, Russia Bound Players, NHLPA Video and Therrien Interview

7:45 AM Sean Lloyd 2 comments

Good Morning Addicts!

Well it didn't take long for many NHL players to head overseas after the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement.

With Evgeni Malkin heading to the KHL to play for Metallurg and hoping to bring teammate Sidney Crosby along, it's evident that any lost time in the 2012-13 season will be advantageous for leagues in Europe.

The owners will have to hope that their star players remain healthy and will be willing to return to the NHL when and if the NHL and NHLPA reach an agreement. With the amount of money that can be offered for players services in Europe, it's a possibility that some players could elect to remain overseas.

Habs And Hockey News

- Less than a day after the NHL addressed the fans with a letter regarding the current lockout, a video was released by the NHLPA with the likes of Sidney Crosby and Jonathan Toews among others talking about their love of the game and the importance of the fans.

- Here is Dave Stubbs' take on what the future has in store for the upcoming season that may not be.

- And for those interested in reading something non lockout related, Habs coach Michel Therrien spoke with Dave Stubbs last week about his second stint as the Habs head coach.

(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images North America)

Top Ten Captains, 72 Series Anniversary, Phil Esposito Interview And More...

11:18 AM Sean Lloyd No comments

Good Morning Addicts!

With the CBA talks on hold and another two weeks before we reach Shane Doan's self imposed signing deadline, there is not so much happening in the NHL world.

Speaking of Doan, NHL.com composed a list of the league's top ten Captains with Doan starting things off at number ten.

The list also includes the likes of Steve Yzerman, Ray Bourque, Sidney Crosby, Joe Sakic and more. It's hard to argue with some of the names on the list, however the order is sure to cause a debate.

What order would you put these captains? Are there any on the list you would replace?

Habs and Hockey News

- Today marks the 40th anniversary of game one of the epic 1972 summit series between Canada and the U.S.S.R. Canada went into the series expecting to walk all over the Soviets only to get trounced 7-3 in the opening game.

- While on the subject, here's an interview Phil Esposito did with Russian international news agency RIA Novosti.

- Over at The Hockey Writers, Justin Johnson does a piece on why it's so important that the player's refrain from caving to the owners this time around.

- And finally, just over a year after riots broke out in Vancouver following the team's game 7 loss to the Boston Bruins in the 2011 Stanley Cup Final, three riot suspects have been tracked in the U.S.

(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images North America)

Habs/Sens post game, Gomez, Skinner suspended, Crosby's return, Leafs and more

10:33 AM Unknown No comments

Morning Habs addicts!

Hope you're enjoying your weekend more than the Habs are. Yes, they've been playing better of late, much to the chagrin of fans wanting them to draft high. But they still tend more to the losing side than anything else.

I know fans are probably blaming their favorite ref since Kerry Fraser (Chris Lee) this morning, but, as Coach Cunneyworth pointed out, the Habs were architects of their own demise against the Sens.

The good news? At least Boston is no longer is first overall in the Northeast!

Habs News

HabsAddict - The Magical Fourth Season: Myth or Reality?

HabsAddict - Habs by the Numbers: Why is Scott Gomez Still Playing? Part deux ...

HabsAddict - Dissecting the Montreal Canadiens: Early March 2012 Edition

Hockey Inside/Out - No rest for weary Canadiens

RDS - Les Sens arrachent deux points au CH

Hockey News

TSN - HURRICANES F SKINNER SUSPENDED TWO GAMES FOR KICKING OPPONENT

TSN - 2.2 MILLION CANADIANS TUNE IN TO CROSBY'S RETURN ON TSN2

TSN - SIEGEL: LEAFS' REIMER STEALS PAGE FROM RED-HOT BRYZGALOV

THN - Campbell: Major junior veterans should get shot at pro hockey

(Photo by Jana Chytilova/Freestyle Photo/Getty Images North America)

Habs/Sens, March Review, Bruins' Struggles, Crosby and More

7:53 AM Louis Moustakas No comments

Morning Hab Fans!

In a tough year for the Canadiens, I believe many of us have found comfort in the struggles of long-time rivals. A bit of schadenfreude, as they say.

First, the Leafs tumble was a delight for many to see.

Now, Tim Thomas and the Boston Bruins' plight must bring a smile to the face of many Habs fans.

The Bruins have lost four in a row and are a dismal 3-7-0 in their last ten games. Tim Thomas has been cold as ice as well. Dating back to February 8th, he has allowed three or more goals in 11 of his last 17 games.

And this fall has finally taken its toll on Boston, who could see the Ottawa Senators move ahead of them in the Northeast Division Standings.

Big implications tonight in Ottawa as the Sens face the Habs.

Do you think the Sens can win their division?

Contest

Courtesy of Animalerie Little Bear, we have two free tickets to give away for the Montreal - Tampa Bay contest at the Bell Centre on April 4th.

To have a chance at winning these tickets, all you need to do is 'like' our Facebook page before March 30th 2012. Please note that to obtain your winnings, you will need to pick up the tickets at Animalerie Little Bear.

Habs News

HabsAddict.com - Dissecting the Montreal Canadiens: Early March 2012 Edition

HabsWorld.net - Risers and Fallers

Hockey Inside/Out - Canadiens visit Kanata

RDS - Bourque est écorché par son entraîneur

TSN - Fraser: The Cole-Kimmerly high-five was all in good fun

Hockey News

ESPN - 5 Things: B's in a funk, Blues jamming

La Presse - Pas de vacances pour Bill Daly

Sports Illustrated - Healthy Crosby makes streaking Penguins even more formidable

The Hockey News - Kennedy: Stars Sidney Crosby, Alex Galchenyuk set to return

TSN - Crosby records assist in return as Penguins thump Rangers

USA Today - Roundup: Ward gets 200th career win as Hurricanes beat Blues

(Photo by Francois Lacasse/NHLI via Getty Images)

Habs/Canucks preview, Leblanc, Leafs, Crosby, Top NHL players and more

8:42 AM Unknown 5 comments

Morning puck addicts!

A quiet night on the Habs front yesterday. That is except for the Habs recalling Louis Leblanc from the Hamilton Bulldogs, again.

This kid is really racking up the Air Miles!

That said, this time things are a little different as Habs center, David Desharnais, is out of the lineup indefinitely with some kind of lower body injury.

With no word yet on the extent of DD's injury, nor the length of his absence from the lineup, this could be a great opportunity for Leblanc. The Habs are going nowhere fast and I believe they should be playing the young players as much as possible.

Will we get to see Leblanc tryout at center? We'll find out as early as tonight when the Habs take on the Canucks in Vancouver.

So with the 10 PM EST start for tonight's game, the real question is, will you be staying up to watch?

Habs News

HabsAddict.com - Habs Press Release: Canadiens recalled Louis Leblanc from the Hamilton Bulldogs

Hockey Inside/Out - Habs visit flat Canucks

RDS - La belle histoire de Max Pacioretty

RDS - Duel CH-Canucks à saveur particulière

TSN - CANADIENS FORWARD COLE FINED $2,500 FOR SLEW-FOOT

ESPN - Canadiens-Canucks Preview

Hockey News

TSN - CAPITALS D GREEN SUSPENDED THREE GAMES FOR ILLEGAL HIT

TSN - CROSBY PRACTICES AGAIN, REMAINS NONCOMMITTAL ON RETURN

TSN - SIEGEL: LEAFS' KOMISAREK RELISHING FRESH START

PSH - Where Did All the Goal Scorers Go?

THN - THN's Top 50 NHLers as voted by the players: 15-11

Spector's Hockey - Updates on the Maple Leafs and Flames – March 9, 2012

Habs/Panthers post game, Lindros, Crosby, Concussions, Rumours and more

8:32 AM Unknown No comments

Happy new year folks! I hope you had a safe and festive new year's celebration last night, and I wish you all the best for 2012!

Now on to hockey. Gulp.

I'm going to make this quick as I'm headed to a new year's day brunch at noon and, well, given how bad the Canadiens have been lately, the brunch is much more exciting.

If you're a Habs fan, this morning, things are looking decidedly grey. Montreal lost, yet again, last night. This time to the Florida Panthers. It was a game which the Canadiens once again saw an early lead slip away.

And that is the trend for this team this year. Early lead. Losing the lead. A powerless powerplay. Lack of consistency and scoring punch. That's pretty much been the recipe of the Canadiens demise in 2011.

As much as Carey Price looked shaky against the Panthers, we have to remember that this was a 2-1 Florida lead until the last minute of the game.

There is no question that the second Panthers goal broke the Habs back and was one Price should have had. But while many will once again point to Price as the culprit, the team in front of him just can't score goals.

But hey, at least Alexei Emelin is still dishing wicked body checks like his hip check on Kris Versteeg that sent the latter end-over-end. Didn't see it? Here's the vid that will put a little smile on your face:

Habs News

Hockey Inside/Out - About 2012 … with audio

RDS - Un effort trop tardif

TSN - REPORT: BARCH EJECTED AFTER RACIAL SLUR IN WIN OVER HABS

Hockey News

TSN - SIEGEL: FAMILIAR FRUSTRATION FOR LEAFS IN WINNIPEG

BEYAK: JETS FINISH HOME STRETCH ON A HIGH NOTE

LINDROS LEADS FLYERS OVER RANGERS IN ALUMNI GAME

PowerScout Hockey - Penguin Precautions: Crosby Attempting to Avoid Same Fate as Lindros

ESPN.com - Lindros was feeling the love

THN.com - VIDEO: THN Puck Panel – Favorite fights of 2011

Spector's Hockey - New Year’s Eve NHL Rumors – December 31, 2011

(Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images North America)