February 9th, 2010 (2)

The announcement of Bob Gainey of the Montreal Canadiens was the big buzz off the ice since the last post. He will remain with the team and close friend and assistent of Mr. Gainey, Pierre Gauthier will take the position on. I liked what Bob had to say about his decision about stepping down, how he was not ready to commit long term doing a job where he has to do just that. Whether this is true or not, it's a nice statement. I never minded Gainey as a GM. It was heart breaking to see Saku Koivu leave and I think he should have thought more about keeping Francois Boullion. But he did pick up the likes of Mike Camalleri and Brian Gionta, and picked up Josh Gorges via trade. He knew that he picked up 3 small forwards through free agency but the speed of these players are a sight to see. Montreal could have done without the signing of Scott Gomez and perhaps picked up a player with a little more size, but who knows what was possible. Gainey's record with the historic Habs was pretty impressive 241-176-46-7. Plus the Hab's are fine as of now, being 6th place in the East.

A trade took place that isn't really worth mentioning. Carolina traded Niklas Wallin and a 5th rounder to San Jose for a 2nd round draft pick. It seems like a fair trade under the circumstances but is certainly not earth shattering.

A couple big injuries also have happened. Canadian Ryan Getzlaf has gone down and is has an unknown status as the Olympics creep closer. 2 important and newly acquired Habs are out till March. Beniot Pouliout who has shined since coming from Minnesota has an upper-body injury and defenceman Marc-Andre Bergeron has been diagnosed with a left knee injury. Marian Gaborik who is often hurt, was cut in practice but appears to be fine. A sigh can be released from Ranger and Slovak fans. Not much can be really said about injuries, other then it really sucks for GM's, I imagine Stevie Y is sweating just a little bit right now.

All my Best; Enjoy Life
Ryan Francis