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March 22, 2013 · 587 Comments

Subban back in the spotlight again; Halpern claimed off waivers

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P.K. Subban was once again under the media microscope on Friday, following Thursday’s eventful 5-2 win over the New York Islanders, during which he was benched during the second period, then scored two goals.

In his post-game interview Thursday, Subban was uncharacteristically moody and he faced the microphones again after practice Friday in Brossard as the Canadiens prepared to face the Buffalo Sabres Saturday at the Bell Centre (7 p.m., CBC, RDS, TSN Radio 690).

“He’s a player that responded well to the message we sent him,” coach Michel Therrien said. “He played an excellent third period.”

Subban told reporters Friday that Therrien has been great for him as a player.

“I’ve enjoyed playing for him,” the defenceman said. “He brings out the best in his players.”

Ryan White will miss Saturday’s game with a lower-body injury and the Canadiens called up Michael Blunden from the Hamilton Bulldogs to take his spot. The Canadiens also claimed Jeff Halpern off NHL waivers from the New York Rangers on Saturday. Halpern played with the Canadiens during the 2010-11 season, posting 11-15-26 totals in 72 games. In 30 games with the Rangers this season he had one assist and was minus-5.

The lines at Saturday’s morning skate were: Ryder-Plekanec-Gionta; Pacioretty-Desharnais-Gallagher; Galchenyuk-Eller-Armstrong; Moen-Dumont-Blunden. Defence pairings were: Markov-Emelin; Gorges-Subban; Bouillon-Tinordi. Carey Price will start in goal.

Brandon Prust (shoulder) and Rene Bourque (concussion) did not skate Saturday morning, but Yannick Weber (knee) did.

Saturday’s game will be Travis Moen’s 600th in the NHL.

The latest episode of the 24CH reality-TV show with a behind-the-scenes look at the Habs airs at 6 p.m. Saturday on RDS and will be repeated at 10:30 p.m.

Game Preview: Canadiens vs. Sabres

Game Notes

Subban under media microscope, by Brenda Branswell

Habs’ road warrior tag to be put to the test, by Pat Hickey

Lindros, Kovalev return to Bell Centre, by Brenda Branswell

HIO fan shines a scary spotlight on concussions, by Stu Cowan

Demers discusses 1993 and more on next HIO show, by Stu Cowan

Was Komisarek treated fairly by Leafs? by Pat Hickey

NHL news and notes, by Pat Hickey

(Photo by John Mahoney/The Gazette)

587 Comments

  1. SmartDog says:
    March 23, 2013 at 10:26 am

    Here’s a question: When did Subban LEAVE the spotlight?

    The kid’s awesome, just let him develop and grow.

    ————————————-
    Listen to the Smart Dog. He knows his poop!

  2. Old Bald Bird says:
    March 23, 2013 at 10:24 am

    Great story, Shane. Thanks for sharing. Among other things, this raised my eyebrows: “Three of his concussions were a result of being a soldier and the others came from playing hockey with Army teams.”

    Read more: http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Cowan+Shining+scary+spotlight+concussions/8141050/story.html#ixzz2ONA84riG

  3. Skeptical says:
    March 23, 2013 at 10:19 am

    Skeptical: I am predicting a Montreal and Boston win tonight

  4. yathehabsrule says:
    March 23, 2013 at 10:19 am

    The Third Star…Maurice Richard! The Second Star….Maurice Richard…The First Star…

    http://www.letiretlebut.com/2013/03/today-in-habs-history-march-23rd-edition.html

    ___________________________________________

    Exploring the Habs history at Le Tir, et Le But! Follow me on Twitter

  5. Old Bald Bird says:
    March 23, 2013 at 10:17 am

    Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen weighs in of boring, defensive hockey

    • mark-ID says:
      March 23, 2013 at 10:26 am

      Read that article this morning….and it kind of annoyed me. He doesn’t mention once that the reason for the slow boring games might have something to do with the Senators. They have the second or third least amount of goals against this year. With so many injuries to their core this year….in order to win they have to keep goals against to a minimum. Ottawa deserves credit for defending extremely well…..but to say most teams are boring other then Chicago Anaheim and Pitts is a little ridiculous and short sighted in my opinion. Makes me think he only watches Sens games.

      “I think I may have found a way for us to get Griffey and Bonds, and we really won’t have to give up much” -Costanza

  6. Hstands4Hockey says:
    March 23, 2013 at 10:14 am

    The team and media better wake up! One day PK is going to realize that he’s the best player on the team, substantially underpaid and gets criticized far more frequently and harshly than any other player in the league! He’s going to want out and go win Stanley Cups and Norris trophies elsewhere. Holding a guy accountable is one thing, but it’s getting ridiculous. PK has the potential to be the most beloved and successful player this franchise has seen since LaFleur, let’s not ruin it!! #SupportPK

    Rule #76: No Excuses, Play Like a Champion!
    @Hstands4Hockey

    • jimmy shaker says:
      March 23, 2013 at 10:32 am

      Eerily familiar to the Price saga a couple of years ago……Maybe PK needs to address the media and while doing so (MT indirectly) and give everyone a big fat “chill out everybody”!

      Shaker out!

    • Danno says:
      March 23, 2013 at 10:48 am

      I have a funny feeling PK is unperturbed by the attention, good or bad, and realizes playing in Montreal is a circus. His game just keeps getting better and better – and he knows he will always be in the spotlight. Learning to adapt to all of the attention is a bit of a challenge, but one he seems to have already mastered at a young age.

      ________________________________________

      “Hey Richard, two minutes for looking so good!”
      Updates, highlights & great discussions on all things Habs

  7. Curtis O Habs says:
    March 23, 2013 at 10:14 am

    Perhaps I`m a little late on this one, but was their any discussion on the cross check to the back of Dumont`s head in the opening minutes of the Islander game? Hamonic was the player, no penalty call.

  8. HabinBurlington says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:58 am

    Has fantasy gone too far?

    http://www.thestar.com/sports/leafs/2013/03/22/author_gare_joyce_creates_an_alternate_reality_for_the_toronto_maple_leafs.html

  9. 24 Cups says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:49 am

    For my good buddy, Ian Cobb.

    http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/jrhockey-buzzing-the-net/solving-belleville-bulls-arena-problem-bigger-might-not-185043012.html#more-20288

  10. Ian_Habs4life says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:47 am

    Has anyone heard anything about Prust ??

  11. HabinBurlington says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:47 am

    So will Randy Carlyle have his Leafs in a staged fight against Boston tonight in the first 2 mins of game as is his norm? Last time they played the Leafs didn’t seem as eager to play Bully as they do most every other night.

    • sholi2000.com says:
      March 23, 2013 at 9:48 am

      Bruins are going to blow those guys away tonight. It’s going to be magical. haha

      Shane Oliver
      Twitter @Sholi2000
      http://www.Sholi2000.com
      Custom Sports Figures

      • HabinBurlington says:
        March 23, 2013 at 9:50 am

        Morning Shane, I am torn who to cheer for as usual in this encounter. But do think Bruins will win. Interesting to see how the Bruins do without McQuaid in lineup, he has become a pretty important player to that team.

        • sholi2000.com says:
          March 23, 2013 at 10:09 am

          When it comes to Leafs vs Bruins, I am going Bruins every time.

          1. My all time favourite match up in the playoffs is Bruins vs Habs
          2. Beating the Leafs will give them false security
          3. Anything to not give the Ontario media hope makes me happy. I still can not believe after the win Thursday night TSN showed the Isle press conference and interviewed Tavarse instead of giving Canada and it’s Canadiens fans Habs to see and listen to. Do these morons working TSN really believe that every fan of the Habs is french? I almost never watch TSN and the one night I did I saw the Isles. Right out of Heehaw I tells ya.
          4. I just don’t like the Leafs fans. Every year win they come out the gate flying they talk the talk and every year when they falter they vanish faster than the trolls here after a big win.

          Shane Oliver
          Twitter @Sholi2000
          http://www.Sholi2000.com
          Custom Sports Figures

      • Hobie Hansen says:
        March 23, 2013 at 9:54 am

        Read the article Shane, thank’s for your dedication to our country! I wish we could add you to the Habs roster for the playoffs! I’d take you in a scrap against Lucic.

    • otter649 says:
      March 23, 2013 at 10:09 am

      Actual TSN figured out the majority of Leaf Fights take part in the first eight minutes of games so The Eight Rule….lol

  12. oldschoolhockey says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:43 am

    Mornin’ ya’ll! Well, my two favorite discussions going on. Pickin’ on Subban and the smurfs. Well, the reality is Subban is one of the best defensemen in the best league, playing on one of the best teams. He can certainly ignore the press, the fans, just not the coaching staff.
    As for our size, it be da truth! We get knocked down regularly in front of the net, pushed off of pucks and face-washed with impunity. Without Prust, White and (lament) Staubitz… our little spark-plugs will get beaten to a pulp over time. That would be Gally, DD, Gionta (all excellent to date) and now Dumont… WE NEED SIZE and skill ;0

    Promote the Youth, Support From The Veterans and Remember the Heritage!

    • Hobie Hansen says:
      March 23, 2013 at 9:50 am

      I have to agree. It’s very frustrating watching our guys face washed and pushed around all night long. That has been very apparent lately.

      Last game against the Isles, yes we won, but at one point Dumont gets crosschecked in the back of the head in front of the net and zero response from White or Moen who were standing right there. And Desharnais, takes a faceoff, and Okposo doesn’t like Desharnais swatting at his stick before the draw and cross checks him, right in front of the ref, two or three times before the puck is dropped, and not a whisper from one member of the Canadiens after

      I’m thrilled to be in 1st place in the NE and the whole song and dance but watching our guys smacked around after every whistle with zero response takes away from this otherwise thrilling ride.

    • JUST ME says:
      March 23, 2013 at 10:14 am

      If you wander around in the different blogs of the NHL`s teams you will discover that everywhere fans say the same things even in Boston or Philadelphia places where we think goons were born. They say the same thing,we need to get bigger,to protect our small guys and so on and so on.

      The way i read it here and elsewhere it is like our guys get tossed around like rag dolls or crash test dummies. Now if you look at things from a different angle you will find out that from the other team`s point of view it is the same scenario.

      I am not saying that everything is perfect and that we would not be better with more muscles but i will not sacrifice talent for muscles.

      And mostly when we debate on that subject we forget 2 things. In the playoffs there is no fighting and bullying cause there is no tomorrow. It is time to play ,time to score,time to win.
      And mostly add whoever you want to the Habs roster, i cannot see how we could have been more successfull than how we are right now. So i am ready to take a chance in the playoffs with what we have right now.

      This team has delivered more than promises this season and deserves to be in the driver seat when it`s crunch time.

    • B says:
      March 23, 2013 at 10:38 am

      I wouldn’t worry too much about Dumont size wise. Earlier this season for Hamilton I watched him go against a 6’5″ Marlie (Colborne) and come out on top. Tough kid!

      –Go Habs Go!–

  13. nihilz says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:39 am

    Norris?

    Im waiting for PK++ to be traded to Edmonton for Yakupov and Whitney.

    Yakupov and Galchenyuk together again. Whitney had his best seasons under Therrien in Pittsburgh.

    The media is going a good job of swaying public opinion before the storm hits. LAAAND HOOO!!!

    • B says:
      March 23, 2013 at 10:54 am

      They should have Subban and Yakupov together, that way PK can give Nail the triple low5 after he dives and slides from blue line to blue line (then they can both do a dance like those two wild and crazy guys on the Avalanche :)

      –Go Habs Go!–

  14. Hobie Hansen says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:37 am

    I for one hope that Marc Bergevin doesn’t, I know he won’t, sacrifice too much of the future on a rental player.

    I think Jared Tinordi has a huge stretch of games coming up for himself and the team, before the deadline. Most posters and fans believe we need at least one more big and strong defensive defenseman in order to make a long playoff run. Is it possible Tinordi gets comfortable enough to fill that void? Is he too young and inexperienced at this point? Looking forward to watching him tonight!

    In terms of a forwards, I think we have enough to get by. One day down the road I’d like to see an average size of 6’2″ up front but don’t mind rolling the dice with what we’ve got now. With the history of the team, the raw emotion of our fans and three healthy scoring lines, I don’t mind us in the playoffs at all. We’ve got the ability to throw a talented 4th line out there, compared to other teams, that will add some energy and hard nosed play. And guys like Eller, Bourque and Pacioretty have some size and will be jacked up in the playoffs and be throwing their weight around.

    So it’s just the front of the net that worries me. We’ll have big and tough teams like the Bruins, Sens and Penguins driving to the net with lots of scrambles in front. We literally have nobody, except Tinordi, that can put up a wall in front of Price. Subban and Gorges are crafty defensively but are not going to put up a stop sign 5 feet in front of Price.

  15. kirkiswork says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:37 am

    Some of those curling girls are pretty hot.
    Great sport.

  16. Mike D says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:37 am

    Mornin’ everyone. Hey did you guys hear anything about this P.K. controversy? Can’t seem to find any info on it.

    - Honestly yours
    Twitter: @de_benny

  17. sholi2000.com says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:35 am

    The Habs are gonna blow these guys away tonight.

    They are gopnna play fast, lots of movement, lots of shots form the slot and score on every rebound.

    PK Hat Trick, because he’s on a mission.

    Carey will be Lights out, and Turkey Gallant will have their PP at Warp factor 7!

    I don’t wanna just win tonight, I want the Sabres to feel the wrath of the first place team (Adams Div) every single shift.

    Lets Go Boys, Mama’s Got a cake in the oven and I’m hungry!

    Shane Oliver
    Twitter @Sholi2000
    http://www.Sholi2000.com
    Custom Sports Figures

  18. HabFab says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:29 am

    So here we have the top 10 Season starts in Hab history. There are some pretty good teams on this list;
    http://canadiens.nhl.com/club/page.htm?id=87821

    • sholi2000.com says:
      March 23, 2013 at 9:47 am

      I Love History!

      The Canadiens did an amazing job on this web site.

      I wonder what the people in Montreal were saying when Dryden came in and took over? (Spring 72)

      I was born a in Oct 71, so when the Canadiens won the cup 7 months later you just know Dad had me there watching, why else would I be this passionate…then again maybe he was drunk and dropped me a few times :lol:

      Shane Oliver
      Twitter @Sholi2000
      http://www.Sholi2000.com
      Custom Sports Figures

      • BJ says:
        March 23, 2013 at 10:02 am

        You wanted to know what people were saying? Well the Bruins were so strong that not many believed in getting past that round and then there was a miracle game where the Habs were down 5-1 in Boston and came back to take it 7-5. I remember watching the game and sticking with it while a few friends left asking me to join them. I turned them down to witness in my estimation the greatest Habs comeback including that Rangers game a few years ago, in Boston with a team that was loaded and included Orr and Esposito. And my favorite all time Habs player John Ferguson also scored that evening. Dryden went on with some miracles and the unexpected happened vs Chicago in the finals. And that final game was amazing as well. Game 7 down 2-0 in the third (if memory serves me well) Lemaire lets go of a slapshot from just inside the center red line that gets by Esposito, the #16 Pocket Rocket got the last two. And Dryden made a miracle stop on Jim Pappin to prevent the score from going 3-0. So thats the memory.

  19. habstrinifan says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:28 am

    On a serious note I think we are going a bit overboard putting down the media over the story. I think it’s just journalism fare folks. It’s like saying the name Michelle Bachman on CNN etc. Not Pulitzer stuff but sports page stuff certainly. It’s all good way I see it.

  20. sholi2000.com says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:26 am

    HEY EVERYONE, It’s a new day and I feel like a million bucks!

    I gots the Playoff fever, is it too early?

    I gotta Have More Cowbell!

    Shane Oliver
    Twitter @Sholi2000
    http://www.Sholi2000.com
    Custom Sports Figures

  21. ed says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:26 am

    I have been following hockey for several years now and I can’t remember ever seeing a player benched because he was the cause of a too many on the ice penalty.

  22. mark-ID says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:17 am

    where is the story about how David Desharnais is in the news again? Wasn’t he riding the pine during the second period vs. the Isles also. Then came back and made a beauty pass to Gionta for the winner. Now that’s a storyline :)

    “I think I may have found a way for us to get Griffey and Bonds, and we really won’t have to give up much” -Costanza

    • Lafleurguy says:
      March 23, 2013 at 9:23 am

      DD has made a couple of the best passes all season with Andrei M. having some dandy ones too. As for DD, can’t understand the criticism for one of the lowest paid players on the team. Less than Moen, heck, even less than Armstrong.

      “May you live in interesting times.”

      • mark-ID says:
        March 23, 2013 at 9:29 am

        Lafleur I am not criticising him at all, don’t take it that way….I am just pointing out how non-sensical it is to have all the criticism on PK. He is hardly the only one to make mistakes….but gets all the attention. Desharnais was just the example I could think of from last game.

        “I think I may have found a way for us to get Griffey and Bonds, and we really won’t have to give up much” -Costanza

  23. savethepuck says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:12 am

    Regarding PK Subban being moody during his postgame interview Thursday night:
    In an interview yesterday, PK said “it’s tough when every time a player gets disciplined or benched, he has to come out here and answer for it. It’s not good for the team.”
    So PK was moody because of the BS questions he was being asked and not because of missing a few shifts. Or am I reading this wrong?

    “They don’t hang Conference Championship Banners from the rafters here”
    Carey Price

  24. CharlieHodgeFan says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:06 am

    PK is proof I was very wrong wrong when I thought Jacques Martin was a tolerable coach with a lousy team. When you watch PK’s play, you see what a skilled coach can offer to a young player. PK could be mad at Therrien, who knows? Who cares? But does he ever respond to a message. He is head and shoulders above how he played last year – a team player and a smarter player. I assume he’s getting good advice, and from there on in, he’s making it work with his great talent.
    Don’t underestimate Markov in the equation though, Even with his bad knees, he still makes the defenceman around him better. He’s smart and he can take on roles that are hard for younger guys.
    I hope Subban doesn’t win the Norris for a couple of seasons. He would learn so much more by winning the Stanley Cup first. The team player approach has transformed him, and he’s much better than he was last year when he valiantly but annoyingly tried to be a whole team by himself. In his play this year, I see a defenceman who has confidence in his teammates.

    • savethepuck says:
      March 23, 2013 at 9:15 am

      Well.said.

      “They don’t hang Conference Championship Banners from the rafters here”
      Carey Price

    • JF says:
      March 23, 2013 at 9:24 am

      Good post. Your last paragraph nails it.

    • Old Bald Bird says:
      March 23, 2013 at 9:25 am

      Let’s give PK some of the flippin credit. He is in his third year, and I doubt hat MT improved his shot or shot selection so much.

      • savethepuck says:
        March 23, 2013 at 9:39 am

        I am giving PK most of the credit too. He’s greatly limited his minor penalties, has greatly improved his shot accuracy. When be doesn’t have the big shot available, instead of trying to make the big play, he’s simply throwing the puck at the net resulting in screen shots, deflection, and rebound goals. I have to also give some credit to the coaching staff for working closely with him too. It doesn’t also hurt to have Marky constantly setting him up in his wheelhouse for those one-timers either. His passes are always perfect.

        “They don’t hang Conference Championship Banners from the rafters here”
        Carey Price

      • New says:
        March 23, 2013 at 9:57 am

        I suspect PK’s shooting average this year is tree times better than last year. I suspect he blasts less at the glass and more at the net. I suspect his stats will reflect that as well.

        A player can’t get better unless there are people there to tell him what he is doing wrong, and he has to listen. JM was a horrid coach and under accomplished with stacked teams everywhere. PK is a gifted young man who is learning that the media wants a story.

        • Old Bald Bird says:
          March 23, 2013 at 10:09 am

          I give MT credit for improving his situational play, but I’ll give PK all of the credit for what he has accomlpished with his shooting. I’ll bet he worked long and hard on it in the off-season.

  25. hockeymaniac31 says:
    March 23, 2013 at 9:05 am

    All you media people just need to shut-up and write bout something else when it comes to pk subban. You guys are going to run him out of town just like Roy (yes ik about the coach leaving him in there allowing 9 goals but that was just icing on the cake). I mean holy crap you guys are making a little thing into the biggest controvery EVER! “Just chill”

  26. JohnBellyful says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:55 am

    There are 258 players in the Hockey Hall of Fame, 98 builders and 15 on-ice officials, of which only eight were NHL referees
    Interestingly, five of the last six on-ice officials to be inducted to the hall were linesmen, with Andy Van Hellemond being the lone referee in that stretch, in 1999.
    Ray Scapinello, the last inductee, in 2008, joined former linesmen John D’Amico, Neil Armstrong, George Hayes (the first official to work 1,000 games, in the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s) and Matt Pavelich.
    You can draw your own conclusions as to why linesmen have become the preferred choice of Hall of Fame electors. The question herewith presented is, which of the following referees do you think will join Bill ‘The Big Whistle’ Chadwick and the others in the hall:
    A) ‘Cataract’ Jack Houlihan
    B) Pete ‘I Am Not An Idiot’ McKarren
    C) Ron ‘Doughnut Face’ Calhoun
    D) Ike ‘IQ-less’ Kinkaid
    E) Chris ‘Stagger’ Lee*
    F) PK Subban**

    *notorious for slaying the hopes and dreams of many a Hab fan
    ** Gawd, he shows up everywhere. What is it with this site?

  27. HabinBurlington says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:52 am

    So can we assume Blunden on 4th line Moen and Dumont? Armstrong still up with Eller and Galchenyuk?

    • Habfan10912 says:
      March 23, 2013 at 8:54 am

      That’d be my guess. I am a little disappointed Bourque isn’t in though. I haven’t heard about a setback. Maybe just the team’s protocol?

  28. adamkennelly says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:42 am

    no Prust, no White – nobody…lets see what Ott and Kaleta get up to tonight..not that Ott made a difference last game….

    • Hobie Hansen says:
      March 23, 2013 at 8:59 am

      You didn’t notice Ott score two goals including the winner in OT?

      • mark-ID says:
        March 23, 2013 at 9:21 am

        I think he’s being sarcastic….as he is trying to say we will get killed out there minus Prust and White. All this guy cares about is “Truculence”. He’s one of the classic this team sucks, because they are too small posters.

        “I think I may have found a way for us to get Griffey and Bonds, and we really won’t have to give up much” -Costanza

  29. habstrinifan says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:34 am

    I think society has progressed amazingly well over the last 50 plus years. I remember a time when some couldnt tell when a black person was blushing. Now they can determine moodiness. Progress is fantastic.

    • HabinBurlington says:
      March 23, 2013 at 8:35 am

      I think we have HD quality cameras and TV’s to thank Trini! Morning bud, hope you are doing well.

      • habstrinifan says:
        March 23, 2013 at 8:43 am

        Good Morning HabinBurlington.Just having some smart-alec sh$#$$-disturbing fun. All I know is Subban could never be PM of Canada. He said it himself… he can’t handle that 3:00am call.

    • Habfan10912 says:
      March 23, 2013 at 8:47 am

      I agree 100% Trin. Even when PK give the correct answers he’s described as moody. And people wonder why so many Star athletes develop attitudes. PK will always be in the spotlight but it’s because of his play nothing more. If this crap continues it will make PK stronger and make us LOVE him even more.

  30. Cal says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:31 am

    Happy Saturday, everyone! I am going to be at Bell Centre tonight. (Look for the fat guy with grey hair and glasses up in the whites- I know, I know- I’ll blend in)
    Time for some Bob Seger It’ll be a break from PK inside out. :)

  31. HabinBurlington says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:27 am

    FOr those in the Southern Ontario area, we remember when Larry Murphy played for the Leafs and was booed out of town, all the way to Detroit where he won another Stanley Cup. Well life in Detroit has come full circle as Fox sports Detroit just fired Murphy from his colour commentary job covering the Red Wings.

    Perhaps in a twist of fate or irony he can be hired by NBC Sports and replace Pierre MacGuire as Colour Commentary for their big games.

    http://www.mlive.com/redwings/index.ssf/2013/03/larry_murphy_shocked_disappoin.html

  32. Phil C says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:24 am

    Although the attention on Subban is ridiculous and unwarranted, I do find it an odd situation where you have a defenseman that played several games in the bottom pairing, requires benching from time-to-time, and frequently draws the ire of his coach (ie,overtime penalty), and yet he is still in the discussion for the Norris. I can’t think of another situation like it. He is so incredibly talented, it’s scary. Once he figures out how to play the way Therrien wants all the time, he is going to absolutely dominate.

  33. 24 Cups says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:22 am

    More on Subban from the Globe & Mail.

    http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/improving-subban-shrugs-off-criticism/article10251186/

  34. Danno says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:18 am

    Even Arpon Basu on the official site is hyping this so-called controversy. It must be a slow news day:
    —————————————————–
    Canadiens: P.K. Subban has taken his game to another level this season, leading the NHL in goals by a defenseman with nine, but his relationship with coach Michel Therrien has been an ongoing storyline throughout the season.

    After Montreal’s overtime loss to the Sabres, Therrien expressed his displeasure with Subban’s penalty in overtime that led to Steve Ott’s winning goal. And in Thursday night’s 5-2 win against the Islanders, Subban sat for nearly half the second period after he jumped on early for a too many men on the ice penalty.

    Therrien says he is simply trying to teach Subban how to be a responsible player, something Subban himself said he appreciates.

    “When you aren’t on the same wavelength with a player, that’s when you start scratching your head,” Therrien told reporters Friday. “But in P.K.’s case — and that’s what I like about him — we have the same goals. That’s why it’s encouraging.”

    Source: Canadiens.NHL.com – http://canadiens.nhl.com/club/preview.htm?id=2012020460

    ________________________________________

    “Hey Richard, two minutes for looking so good!”
    Updates, highlights & great discussions on all things Habs

  35. Gazza Strip says:
    March 23, 2013 at 8:10 am

    When I was at the Boston game earlier in the month the crowd was on PK all night. Some of that is no doubt the color of the jersey he was wearing, part of it was that his abilities scare the crap out of them. I can’t help but wonder how much of that is related to the color of his skin. I also wonder what Malcom is thinking when he hears that type of reaction? Things are interesting now, imagine what they will be like when he reaches the show and PK is firing lazers at little brother wearing the enemy colors.

    And for a non hockey thought, if anyone is looking for some absolute great new rock, check out the new effort by Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters. The album is called Sound City and it is a gem, just like PK Subban.

  36. Danno says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:53 am

    I don’t want to start another controversy, but there really is no controversy here.

    ________________________________________

    “Hey Richard, two minutes for looking so good!”
    Updates, highlights & great discussions on all things Habs

  37. 24 Cups says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:48 am

    The latest NHL suspension.

    http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=60&id=226102&cmpid=embed-share-video

  38. 24 Cups says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:45 am

    Records that will stand the test of time.

    http://www.thestar.com/sports/basketball/2013/03/22/some_sporting_records_will_forever_stand_the_test_of_time_perkins.html

  39. 24 Cups says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:37 am

    A possible Mike Boone keyboarding nightmare.

    http://hockey.dobbersports.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5376:who-is-valery-nichushkin&catid=919:prospect-schopping&Itemid=117

  40. 24 Cups says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:33 am

    Get off your butt and read this article.

    http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/21932148/danny-dekeyser-the-college-defenseman-every-nhl-team-wants

    • Loonie says:
      March 23, 2013 at 7:40 am

      Thanks Steve.

      I find it interesting that this seems to happen every year now. It also seems to have coincided with slow trade deadline days from a media perspective. I think it might just be possible that players who are very good and coming out of college have a bit more hype behind them than what’s deserved. As the writer points out each team has a chance at the kid without giving up assets and that will drive the market up for his services.

      I equate this to everyone wanting a crack at Brad Richards in free agency. He’s probably not an elite player anymore but because he was the gem of the UFA market and his suitors didn’t have to give anything other than money up to get him it was full steam ahead.

      • Phil C says:
        March 23, 2013 at 7:56 am

        I believe he still has to sign a two year entry level deal, so the market shouldn’t be affected. It’s just a matter of where he wants to play. It will be interesting to see how he choses, ie what his priorities are, whether it be geography, teammates, organizational opportunity/fit, or a chance to win.

        • 24 Cups says:
          March 23, 2013 at 8:13 am

          Exactly.

          Why sign with Pittsburgh when you already know they have five great defensive prospects under the age of 22? It would be much better to go to a team like Calgary which really doesn’t have that many prospects or a set top six.

          I also think some of these young UFAs ask for a guarantee that they will go directly to the NHL. There is no use getting all that bonus money and then have to play in the AHL for two years.

          • HabFab says:
            March 23, 2013 at 8:17 am

            Off subject Steve but we had a visitor the other evening. Twocents (Eric) gave us a brief visit.

          • 24 Cups says:
            March 23, 2013 at 8:27 am

            Frank – I used to love those discussions that involved people like Twocents, krob, ebk and Robert L.

            Alas, it would appear that Nightmare #49 has left the site permanently. He used to give me a pretty hard time but he certainly knew his hockey.

          • HabFab says:
            March 23, 2013 at 8:36 am

            I fear the worse in Bryan’s case. I have tried to pick up some of the slack but he is not replaceable.

    • HabinBurlington says:
      March 23, 2013 at 8:32 am

      Read it, but remain firmly planted on butt and on couch. Sorry for not taking all your instruction. :)

    • habstrinifan says:
      March 23, 2013 at 8:52 am

      WOW! He looks bigger than 198 and the rticle makes jim sound bigger. The Red Wings connection with his ex-coach may be good news for Detroit.

  41. twilighthours says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:33 am

    Will the gazette be able to pump out a daily subban story? Seems like the writers are trying to.

  42. 24 Cups says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:30 am

    The Markov effect.

    http://blogs.thescore.com/nhl/2013/03/22/the-andrei-markov-effect/

  43. Pieboy says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:20 am

    PK has received a lot of unfair criticism about his character, but he has consistently shown a remarkable amount of tact, especially for a young man.

    I also really appreciate how he has been able to adjust this year and get his shots on net. The kid is a remarkable talent, from stem to stern.

  44. Marc10 says:
    March 23, 2013 at 7:19 am

    Just watched Shanny’s explanation of why Rick Nash has a license to kill. Nice…

    Basically, all you need is a guy trying to play the game and moving around and you can blindside the crap out of him. He’s trying to score… Awesome! Just go to town. What a farce!

  45. HABZ24 says:
    March 23, 2013 at 6:52 am

    Look out there on the ice, is it? Yes it is , its P.K SUPERMAN !!!

    GO HABS GO

  46. Marc10 says:
    March 23, 2013 at 6:38 am

    I’ll echo the sentiments of many on this thread… Enough with the PK hyperbole. He’s our best D. The entire league knows it. He’s turning into a great point man on the powerplay, and as with any young NHLer, every now and again he makes a mistake and the press ask the coach about it. Who cares. Move on.

    PK’s one of the best three guys on the ice pretty much every time his blades make contact with the rink… Let’s sit back and enjoy the rise and rise of Mr Subban as he homes in on his first Norris Trophy nomination (and on one massive payday!)

  47. frozengolf says:
    March 23, 2013 at 6:36 am

    I don’t know if this has been posted yet, but here is a look at the Habs European and college prospects.

    http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/86767/montreal-canadiens-own-promising-group-of-prospects-in-europe-and-ncaa/

    _________________________________________________________
    “We know that hockey is where we live, where we can best meet and overcome pain and wrong and death. Life is just a place where we spend time between games.”

  48. WindsorHab-10 says:
    March 23, 2013 at 5:40 am

    In my opinion, PK Subban is the face of the Montreal Canadiens. When I hear Canadiens, he’s the first player that comes to mind. Glad to have him.

  49. Prairienewf says:
    March 23, 2013 at 3:44 am

    As Boone tried to say with his share….NUFF SAID! Read it and ….
    http://canadiens.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=661545

  50. Sportfan says:
    March 23, 2013 at 3:03 am

    Hearing that he was moody is kind of concerning, but either way PK is one of the best so let him be guys

    http://nickolaisblog.wordpress.com/

  51. Buzz Lightbeer says:
    March 23, 2013 at 1:29 am

    “Back in the spotlight again”? “Uncharacteristically Moody”? What a bunch of tabloid rag journalism. Any real news to report?

  52. Corson27 says:
    March 23, 2013 at 1:15 am

    I love the Habs but if PK bolts I would say good for him. Tired of this crap, leave the guy alone and let him play for the team he loves.

  53. Boomer says:
    March 23, 2013 at 12:39 am

    Don’t know if this has been posted but it’s an article about some of our junior prospects from the habs official site

    http://canadiens.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=661408&navid=DL|MTL|home

  54. cautiousoptimist says:
    March 23, 2013 at 12:29 am

    I like this site a lot, and Stu’s writing too. But at the risk of parroting what everyone’s saying down below, a headline like “Subban back in the spotlight again” is purposeful sensationalism. Who doesn’t get benched for a few shifts now and then?

    Let’s stop trying to compete with the Journal de Montreal by manufacturing problems in the room, and focus on the good hockey journalism that you guys do really well.

    Mike Boone: “With Gainey at my side, I’d walk into any dark alley in the world.”

  55. Mr. Biter says:
    March 23, 2013 at 12:28 am

    Speaking about concussions my wife some how hit her head on the rear door or passanger door of the SUV and gave herself a bad one (also does not drink). Gash on the head and doctor says it will be 3 weeks min. till she makes a full recovery if not longer. She won’t take more than 1 tynalol a day (hates drugs) but you can tell she’s in a daze. If that can happen from a car door no wonder some players are out for months.

    Mr. Biter
    No Guts No Glory

    • Tis Himself says:
      March 23, 2013 at 12:46 am

      Just do the simple math: F (force) = M (mass) X A (acceleration). It’s an eye opener on an average NHL check!

    • Dunboyne Mike says:
      March 23, 2013 at 5:01 am

      Hey best wishes to Mrs Biter (and fair play to her on resisting drugs). Here’s hoping symptoms aren’t too bad and it doesn’t go much beyond those 3 weeks.

      (Meanwhile, I’d be concerned about your SUV rear door. The league is more likely to suspend it than suspend Steve Nash.)

    • habstrinifan says:
      March 23, 2013 at 8:22 am

      Scary story Mr Biter. Please keep her safe and make sure you see definite early signs of her normal alertness… else get her back to doctor and insist on the full regimen of tests. Good luck to you both.

  56. Mr. Biter says:
    March 23, 2013 at 12:23 am

    Actually it nice to see a Head Coach bench players after or during a game if they are making the same mistakes they are probably told about in practise. Since MT benched both DD and PK he is an equal opportunity bencher. And did missing a few shifts cause them both to pull a Roy, no. Just wondering why people ask PK about the few shifts he missed and not DD.

    Mr. Biter
    No Guts No Glory

    • johnnylarue says:
      March 23, 2013 at 12:51 am

      There is something unhealthy–if not downright embarrassing–about the amount of attention and thinly veiled negativity directed at PK by the media.

      I understand the need for copy, etc., but honestly folks, this PK fixation is bordering on psychosis. I’d like to think that we, as a society, have moved past the point where the notion of a black hockey player elicits as much curiosity as a unicorn sighting. DD or otherwise, I promise you, any other roster player getting benched for a portion of a period will never be headline fodder.

      I swear, hockey has got to have the most confusing/confused moral compass of any pro sport.

      • ZepFan2 says:
        March 23, 2013 at 12:56 am

        P.K.’s black? :shock:

        This type of (non) “story” makes me wonder how crazy this site would be back when Bowman was coach.

        ———————————————————————-
        Ka is a wheel.

        For Your Life

      • Dunboyne Mike says:
        March 23, 2013 at 6:15 am

        Good post, JL. It’s very off-putting.

        You could well be right, but I hope not (re skin colour). Perhaps it’s a simpler, more traditional media tactic: picking holes — more like imagining holes — in someone merely because he/she combines great talent with immense popularity and a big, outgoing personality.

        And when you look at the headline+(non)story and see the byline of a journalist you otherwise admire, it’s impossible to fathom. I mean, what editorial meeting involved an enthusiastic discussion of don’t-look-now-but-I-think-SOMEONE-got-benched-in-the-second-period-whatEVER-will-happen-next?

        Perhaps it was an emergency editorial meeting following the discovery that there had been no mention of PK and MT on HIO for three consecutive posts.

        Bah.

        Cheers Larue.

  57. Tis Himself says:
    March 23, 2013 at 12:18 am

    Jackie Parker’s career might not end with a National Championship, but I’d be really surprised if bU doesn’t get to the show. Having kicked the crap out of BC this evening 6-3, U-MA Lowell who just slid by Providence is gonna get waxed tomorrow night! Go out carrying the Cup Jackie, you deserve it!

  58. sholi2000.com says:
    March 22, 2013 at 11:44 pm

    What a great job Stu, Thanks for the support!

    I’m telling you people this now, no matter how strong you are in life once the brain is damaged you have no control over what can happen. I got lucky.

    You can say to yourself how can someone do that to themselves well it’s easy. If you are looking for a cure and three years later you are still hurt and the disappointment is there every day, then it seems hopeless.

    I was at the top of my field, one of the best and when I lost it all it was very hard to take.

    People said yeah but you will be looked after your whole life, well that’s not me. I want to look after you, not the other way around.

    When they told me I couldn’t go on my last mission and we lost over 13 men I felt like it was all because of me. I thought because I wasn’t there to help that people died. I know that’s not the case but that’s how you feel.

    And then the depression hit, and I almost escaped it all the easy way.

    When I’m around hockey, I am smiling, but when I’m alone at home and not working on my next customer I slip into a very scary place. It’s not my fault I know, my brain that controls this is missing the key parts and Canadian Tire doesn’t have the pieces for me.

    This is my first Staurday night game where I don’t have to PVR it. Looking forward to some beers and fun here at Habs Inside Out :)

    Shane Oliver
    Twitter @Sholi2000
    http://www.Sholi2000.com
    Custom Sports Figures

  59. Hamayoune says:
    March 22, 2013 at 11:29 pm

    C’mon Stu. This is very uncharacteristic of HIO blogging to be fabricating stories, it’s the one site that I really enjoy getting my news from.

    • Clay says:
      March 23, 2013 at 12:00 am

      What exactly are you implying is ‘fabricated’?

      __________________________
      ☞ The first principle is that you must not fool yourself, and you are the easiest person to fool. ~ Richard Feynman ☜

  60. Laramy87 says:
    March 22, 2013 at 11:22 pm

    Tokarski with another shutout. 3rd since the trade. Do habs resign Budaj in the offseason, find another veteran goalie or go to Price Tokarski combo. I would be okay with the Price Tokarski combo myself.

  61. jols101 says:
    March 22, 2013 at 11:21 pm

    Shane, sad yet inspirational story. Thanks for sharing. Thanks for your service to our country and best of luck in the future to you and your family.

    As for this story, I find it similar to the invented piece about Galchenyuk being worthy of being on the Habs last week. These stories seem designed to get a rise out of us fans. Not based on any fact or merit. Stories designed to inflame the fan base. And it works.

  62. Danno says:
    March 22, 2013 at 11:04 pm

    Slow news day…

    “uncharacteristically moody”

    Really?

    ________________________________________

    “Hey Richard, two minutes for looking so good!”
    Updates, highlights & great discussions on all things Habs

    • JohnBellyful says:
      March 23, 2013 at 12:03 am

      MONTREAL – Montreal Canadiens star defenceman PK Subban tweeted today he now has a Jack Russell – and then had to defend himself against criticism he doesn’t like his coach.
      “Look, I called him Terriern because I thought it was cute,” Subban told reporters. “He’s a terrier and I have a coach whose name is Therrien. It seemed amusing. Terriern, Therrien. Geez, guys, it’s a play on words, okay?”
      Many on Twitter saw if differently, saying his choice of name for an animal not averse to licking itself was clearly intended to damage coach Michel Therrien’s reputation.
      “I don’t even know why you people bring that up, I’ve never seen Coach lick himself,” Subban said. “ But I have seen him lick this team into the best shape it’s been in a long time.”
      The young rearguard, who was uncharacteristically moody meeting reporters as he stepped out of the shower at his condo, stressed he was not calling his coach a dog. “What I’m really saying is my dog can be my at-home coach. Having him around will make me a better person. Which is what all pets do with their owners, make them better people.”
      Asked if that was a not-so-subtle jab at Therrien, comparing his coaching style to the behaviour of a dog that barks a lot, a clearly exasperated Subban explained: “One’s a canine, the other’s canny. Do I have to tell you which?”
      Pressed for clarification, Subban emphatically stated Therrien is the smarter of the two.
      “By leaps and bounds,” he said, as Terriern – the dog – leapt and bounded about the room.
      “T-H-E-R-R-I-E-N,” Subban spelled out, seeing the atypical knowing looks among the reporters.
      Subban said he enjoyed playing for Therrien because he demands his players to play to the best of their ability. He didn’t mind being benched to improve his performance.
      “It’s like having someone nip at your heels to steer you in the right direction,” he said. “He digs deep down to find what he’s looking for in a player. And he always gets what he wants.”
      Therrien was a jovial mood when reporters arrived at his place as taping was finishing for the next broadcast of CH24.
      “PK has responded well to the message we sent him, during the game, and by registered letter the next day,” he said. “He’s a smart, young man who has the potential to be a dominant defenceman in this league. We want him to be responsible with the puck, and responsible without the puck. We also want him to be responsible with his backside, and not go trying to ram an opponent into the boards with it, especially in overtime.”
      Therrien laughed when he was told Subban had bought a Jack Russell and named it Terriern.
      “That’s funny,” Therrien said. “I just got a dog, too. It shows we’re on the same wavelength.”
      He whistled and a little ball of fur came racing out from the kitchen, yipping with excitement at the sight of its master.
      “It’s a Shih Tzu,” Therrien said. “I call it Soobie-Doo.”

      – “A little song, a little dance, a little seltzer down your pants.” –

      http://johnbellyful.weebly.com/

  63. HabFan in Edmonton says:
    March 22, 2013 at 11:01 pm

    On a very positive note, the Flames lose again, time to trade Iginla and rebuild. Of course it could also mean the Flames 2nd rounder could be a top 35 pick for the Habs. Maybe the Flames and Nashville will finish 2nd and 3rd last (Florida has the worst record wrapped up) and the Habs will draft 32 and 33 !! Nice to dream a bit !!

  64. Tis Himself says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:46 pm

    BC gets a fiver for cross checking at the beginning of the third. BU scores almost immediately. 4-2 BU. Jackie Parker’s 40-year career ain’t ending tonight!

  65. Mark C says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:43 pm

    Dustin Tokarski with a 40 save shutout. 1-0 win for the Bulldogs.

  66. Say Ash says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:42 pm

    According to Panger, Subban was benched the White way.

  67. Mark C says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:41 pm

    Watch this clip from TSN, and draw your own conclusions about the Subban and Therrien relationship. Sure looks like a player who has been understanding and responsive to coaching, and who “gets it”.

    http://video.tsn.ca/?dl=main/latest/1/0/890335/clip/381

  68. JohnBellyful says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:33 pm

    Great story, Shane — for having overcome so much adversity, setting an example for us all — and Stu, in the telling of it.

  69. JUST ME says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:32 pm

    For once you have a coach that coaches and obviously deals with the different individuals of the team and shows them how to blend in ….

    This whole story does not deserve so much attention. This is every day life around a hockey team as it should be.
    Happy that P.K. confirms that Therrien is well in control and that those in the media trying to stir the pot should look elsewhere than with the Habs this season.

  70. coachjoev13 says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:28 pm

    Please, every Habs fan, embrace PK. Stop the nonsense. This is a young man that bleeds bleue, blanc, rouge. Stop looking for faults and LOVE this kid. He is a beast. He is the future. He is fantastic!

    I LOVE PK! Go HABS go!

    P.S. same goes for Price…stop hating! These guys are giving everything they have for YOU!!!!!!

  71. NTTIAWWT says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:27 pm

    Please, please, please Montreal Gazette, do not lower yourselves to the level of the dumb hackneyed Toronto media. Why fabricate headlines and surreptitious stories that have no value? You are better than this. Leave PK alone. Please.

  72. Tis Himself says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:25 pm

    BC goes up 2-0 in the first. BU scores three straight in the second. 3-2 BU going into the third. This is great hockey!!!

  73. Da Hema says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:23 pm

    “Subban back in the spotlight again?” What a pile of manufactured bullshit. This isn’t journalism Stu. You and The Gazette should be better than this.

    • DDO_Habs_Fan says:
      March 22, 2013 at 10:38 pm

      It’s as if they’re stirring up s%&@t again and we all start arguing again. No thanks. I’ve stated and discussed my perspective enough already. Good night everybody.

      BTW it was a Gazette reporter who asked the question that started it all after the Buffalo game. And it was the same reporter who tried again last night but MT did not fall for it the 2nd time. No wonder JM never said anything to the media. Enough already…

      “You’re always, always, always looking to make your team better. Always.”- Marc Bergevin

  74. Tis Himself says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:22 pm

    Is this BU/BC Game a freakin’ cracker or what???

  75. habfan01 says:
    March 22, 2013 at 10:07 pm

    first

  76. Vid says:
    March 23, 2013 at 1:37 am

    That’s probably one reason why Price and Subban are best buds, they can swap fake, fabricated and over-exaggerated stories with each other.

  77. Dunboyne Mike says:
    March 23, 2013 at 6:29 am

    And silent, private triple low-fives in the skate-sharpening room at Brossard.

  78. Dunboyne Mike says:
    March 23, 2013 at 6:37 am

    Then it would be ok to suspend Steve Nash.

  79. sholi2000.com says:
    March 23, 2013 at 10:18 am

    OMG I knew that, thanks for the reminder.

    Shane Oliver
    Twitter @Sholi2000
    http://www.Sholi2000.com
    Custom Sports Figures

  80. B says:
    March 23, 2013 at 11:02 am

    Dryden won the Conn Smythe the season before he won the Calder. Not a bad start to his NHL career.

    –Go Habs Go!–

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