We are in full swing of the Unrestricted Free Agency period in the NHL and I must say that at this time, I’m very happy with the 2 signings, GM Pierre Gauthier made.
With several fans wanting Jagr or Semin in the mix, I for one am extremely happy that we got neither player. We are already paying Scott Gomez a shitload of money for doing absolutely nothing. So we didn’t need more players like that with the Habs.
Instead the Habs went out and got, IMO an excellent player in Erik Cole. Cole, whose 32 years old signed a 4 year deal worth $18 million. In my opinion, Cole will bring some leadership to the Habs and experience. He’s got great vision on the ice and for the net also. Last year, he was 4th in GWG with a total of 9, that means that he’s a clutch performer and a player you can count on in the last minutes of a game.
Some of you might say that his only success has been in Carolina, cause his short stint in Edmonton was a disaster. True, however he did not have his heart in Edmonton, while here he wants to come to Montreal. Captain Brian Gionta did a good job at selling Montreal to Cole, and I can easily see Cole playing on our top 2 lines.
With this signing, I can actually see the Habs having 3 very solid lines, that could really complement each other.
Habs also signed former Avalanche # 1 goalie Peter Budaj to a 2 year deal to back up Carey Price. Budaj is a player that IMO never lived up to expectations, and might be getting a second chance of life in the NHL with the Habs. Budaj, will be an excellent back up that can fill the roll if something happens to Price.
I for one would of loved someone a little older, to be able to continue and mentor Price, however Budaj is not a bad option between the pipes.
Habs are still trying finalize a deal with Josh Gorges. I would love nothing better , than having Josh signed a long term deal in Montreal. He’s really come on his own here, and has all the skills and poise to be an excellent leader and possibly future Captain of the Habs.
I hope that the Habs continue on the right path, and continue to improve, so we fans can have some great long post-season hockey like in years past.
