Knee Jerk Thoughts to Higgins Trade

Posted by Kyle Roussel
All Habs

What a day.

I'm at my desk around 4:55 pm, anxiously waiting to skip out for the 5:06 train to catch a 6:30 viewing of Transformers 2. I loved the first, and have been waiting with baited breath for part 2.

Then, breaking news! Oh no! Please - not Vinny!

Could it get worse?

I don't know, but what I heard left a lump in my throat:

Chris Higgins has been traded to the New York Rangers.

Ok, ok, I can live with that. Higgins was a nice player, but I just couldn't put a finger on what he was supposed to be. A scorer? A shutdown guy? Who knows.

He's a restricted free agent so I couldn't see the Habs getting much in return. A middling draft pick. Then the storm clouds started swirling in my mind...what if Gainey swung a deal for one of the Rangers overpaid dogs in Wade Redden, Chris Drury or the sickest puppy of the bunch: Scott Gomez and his albatross contract?

I had to split for the train before hearing who the Canadiens got in return, but part of me wishes I still hadn't turned on the radio when I got to my car. Why couldn't I have just turned on Dave Matthews' wonderful new cd instead?

Chris Higgins, Ryan McDonagh, Pavel Valentenko and Doug Janik for Scott Gomez and 2 other guys.

I kid you not, I nearly rear ended the car in front of me. It HAD to be a joke. But nope, there was local radio anchor Mitch Melnick scratching his head with TSN's Pierre McGuire. If I could have turned in to the Hulk, I could have. I could have lived with Scott Gomez and his stupid contract. It's not quite as long or hideous as Vincent Lecavalier's. But to give up Ryan McDonagh AND Pavel Valentenko? The Rangers should have thrown in a draft pick just for the favour of taking Scott Gomez off of their books. Instead, Gainey threw a coveted first round pick at the Rangers.

I thought Glen Sather is usually the one to get bent over the barrel with these sorts of deals?
I thought stockpiling youth and prospects was to be used to build your team for the future, not to throw at rivals in exchange for 8 millions dollars of mediocrity. Oh sure, Gomez is a cute player and all. But for 60 points per season, I would have kept Saku Koivu thank you very much.

I truly hope Gainey is looking to parlay this deal in to something else. Immediately.

I've always supported Gainey, but this trade makes not one ounce of sense. It does not upgrade the Canadiens at all. In fact, it gives us another small forward with average production, but with an inflated price tag, and our farm is short 2 assets.

If this is the way it goes down, I hope the Molsons have their hand on the trap door button beneath Gainey's feet because this is getting silly. UFAs walking away for nothing, and now with a golden opportunity to rebuild the team, he's going to load it with bloated contracts? Enough.

I didn't want to write, nevermind post this because I'm just so dismayed at this sequence of events, but I always reserve the right to change my mind when and if Gainey decides to fix this colossal brain fart.

Oh well, at least 2.5 hours of robots smashing the hell out of each other helped to distract me.

Higgins excited about New York homecoming

Gomez trade brings Rangers a goal-scorer, former first-round draft pick
By Jim Cerny, newyorkrangers.com

Back in the spring of 1994 Christopher Higgins was miserable, an 11-year-old Montreal Canadiens fan living on Long Island and watching the Rangers capture the Stanley Cup. Now, 15 years later, Higgins arrives on Broadway looking to help the Rangers win their next Stanley Cup championship.

Higgins was acquired Tuesday afternoon by the Rangers as part of a six-player trade with the Montreal Canadiens in which New York also acquired young defensemen Ryan McDonagh and Pavel Valentenko in exchange for veteran center Scott Gomez, forward Tom Pyatt, and defenseman Mike Busto.

“In ’94 I had to hear it from all of my friends about how much better the Rangers were than the Canadiens, that wasn’t the best memory,” recalled Higgins, who is a native of Smithtown, N.Y. “But when (the trade) happened I was absolutely thrilled. If there was one team I wanted to play for besides Montreal it would be the Rangers. To play in front of my family and friends is a dream come true for me.”

The 26-year-old Higgins is coming off an injury-plagued 2008-09 season, one in which groin and shoulder injuries limited him to only 57 games of action. He netted 12 goals and recorded 23 points before potting a pair of goals during the first round of the playoffs against the Boston Bruins.

However, Higgins was a 20-goal scorer in each of the three seasons prior to ’08-’09, pouring in a career-high 27 just two years ago. A force on the power play and also while playing shorthanded, Higgins had 12 power-play tallies in 2007-08, and has notched eight career shorthanded goals, including two last season.

“We think Higgins is a goal-scorer and we are very happy to have him,” said Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather. “He’s also from the New York area, and he’s excited to be coming home. We think he is a good player and that is why we made the deal.”

Higgins was selected from Yale University in the first round of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, 14th overall, by the Canadiens, and has since played in 282 games for Montreal, scoring 84 goals and 151 points.

Prior to attending Yale, the Long Island-born Higgins attended Avon Old Farms High School in Connecticut, the same school former Rangers great Brian Leetch went to as a teenager.

“I grew up watching Brian Leetch a lot because he went to the same high school I did,” noted Higgins. “I was always rooting for him and hoping the best for him. It’s great to see him in the Hall of Fame now.”

Higgins said that coming off an injury-marred season and then being traded will provide quite a bit of motivation for him next season. And he also expressed excitement about getting the chance to play in John Tortorella’s aggressive offensive system, one that Higgins believes dovetails nicely with his own game.

“I like to be moving my feet the whole time I am out there for my shift,” said Higgins. “I pride myself on my work ethic. I think when I am working my hardest that’s when I am playing my best. I hope to bring that energy and that type of work ethic to each shift every night.”

Along with Higgins, the Rangers also added to their growing stable of talented young defensemen by acquiring the 20-year-old McDonagh and the 21 year-old Valentenko.

Like Higgins, McDonagh was also a first-round pick of the Canadiens, being selected 12th overall in 2007. The 6-foot-1, 212 pounder played at the University of Wisconsin last season and recorded 16 points (5-11-16) and 59 penalty minutes in 36 games.

Valentenko, a 2006 fifth-round pick by Montreal, split last season between the Canadiens’ minor league affiliate in Hamilton and Moscow Dynamo in the KHL.

Ryan McDonagh, a 2007 first-rounder, had three assists in six games for Team USA at the 2009 World Junior Championships.
“McDonagh is certainly a player that is going to play in the NHL, as well as Valentenko,” said Sather. “We got two good prospects in this deal.”

The Rangers not only added three good young players to their roster on Tuesday, the club also added more flexibility under the salary cap by trading Gomez, who struggled last season recording just 58 points, one year after putting up 70 in his first season on Broadway.

“It gives us a lot more options, more availability to do other things,” said Sather. “We’re not up against the (salary) cap now. We’ve got lots of cap room. It just makes the options more inviting to us now.”

Although pleased with the trade he made, Sather still had nothing but good things to say about Gomez, whom the Rangers signed to a free-agent contract back in the summer of 2007.

“I think Scott is a very good player, a real good guy who worked real hard and was exceptional with the team in the dressing room,” Sather said. “I have no complaints about him.”

This deal behind him, Sather can now turn his attention to the start of the National Hockey League’s free agency period, which officially gets underway at Noon ET on Wednesday.

Regardless of the free-agency picture, Sather is confident that Tuesday’s deal is an important part of the process of reshaping and retooling his team for the better come the 2009-10 campaign.

“You can’t stay pat with a hockey team,” Sather said. “I think you have to make a certain number of changes every year, and we decided this was the right change for us.”

Canadiens acquire Gomez from Rangers

TSN.ca Staff
6/30/2009 8:01:27 PM

Getting a jump on the free agent market, the Montreal Canadiens moved to secure their centre ice position via trade, making a deal with the New York Rangers Tuesday and taking on a whole lot of salary in the process.

The Canadiens acquired centre Scott Gomez, winger Tom Pyatt and defenceman Mike Busto from the New York Rangers in exchange for winger Chris Higgins and defencemen Doug Janik, Ryan McDonagh and Pavel Valentenko.

Gomez, 29, is coming off a down season for the Rangers, finishing with 58 points, his lowest total since 2002-2003.

"We are extremely pleased to have acquired a player of the caliber of Scott Gomez. He is an outstanding playmaker and an excellent skater. Having won the Stanley Cup twice with the New Jersey Devils, he brings to our team a lot of playoff experience. Scott is an elite player who will certainly contribute to the success of our team for years to come" said Canadiens GM Bob Gainey.

A two-time Stanley Cup winner with the New Jersey Devils, Gomez was a blockbuster free agent signing for the Rangers in the summer of 2007. Gomez is signed through 2013-2014, at a salary cap hit of more than $7.35-million, so he represents a significant investment.

In 706 career games, Gomez has 148 goals, 430 assists and 578 points, adding 81 points in 114 career playoff games.

Higgins, a 26-year-old restricted free agent winger, also struggled in 2008-2009, scoring a career-low 23 points in 57 games as he missed a combined 25 games with hand and groin injuries.

Prior to last season, however, Higgins recorded three straight seasons of at least 20 goals and he'll be a more economical option for the Rangers as he earned $1.7-million last season.

McDonagh, 20, was Montreal's first-round pick in 2007 and recorded 16 points in 36 games as a 6-foot-1, 212-pound sophomore at the University of Wisconsin in 2008-2009.

Valentenko, 22, has good size at 6-foot-2, 202 pounds, but left the Canadiens' farm team in Hamilton early last season to play for Moscow Dynamo in the KHL, where he finished with one assist in eight games.

Janik, a 29-year-old journeyman acquired from Dallas last season, will be an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

The minor leaguers coming to Montreal aren't considered elite prospects. A six-foot, 185-pound forward, Tom Pyatt is a 22-year-old who put up 37 points in 73 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL last season and was a fourth-round pick in 2005.

23-year-old Busto is 6-foot-1, 210 pounds and registered 11 points and a minus-7 rating in 54 games with Charlotte of the ECHL.

Komisarek to test free agency on Wednesday

TSN.ca Staff
6/30/2009 4:05:41 PM

If the Montreal Canadiens want to retain Mike Komisarek's services, they'll have to compete with a handful of other teams starting at Noon et on Wednesday.

The agent for the veteran defenceman told the media Tuesday that his client will test the free agent market.

"After much discussion and thought, Mike Komisarek has decided to enter the free agent market tomorrow at noon," said agent Matt Keator in a statement. "Should they desire, we intend to keep Montreal involved in the process as they have treated Mike so well during his time in the organization. He remains interested in resigning with them."

The Canadiens reportedly made offers to two potential unrestricted free agents on Monday - Komisarek and winger Alex Kovalev. The club has 10 players who are set to hit the open market, including Alex Tanguay and captain Saku Koivu.

Komisarek, 27, had 11 points and 121 penalty minutes in 66 games with the Canadiens last season and was among the league leaders in blocked shots and hits over the last three years.

He was taken seventh overall by the Canadiens in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. In 361 career regular season games, the New York native has 12 goals and 46 assists for 58 points, all with the Canadiens.

Canadiens give qualifying offers to RFA forwards

TSN.ca Staff
6/29/2009 6:58:20 PM

The Montreal Canadiens have extended qualifying offers to their six restricted free agent forwards, centres Tomas Plekanec and Kyle Chipchura, wingers Christopher Higgins, Guillaume Latendresse, Matt D'Agostini and Greg Stewart.

Plekanec was the leading scorer of that group, tallying 39 points in 80 games in 2008-2009. Latendresse and Higgins missed time with injuries and produced 26 points and 23 points, respectively, while D'Agostini finished with 21 points in 53 games after getting called up.

Chipchura and Stewart played most of the season with the Hamilton Bulldogs in American Hockey League.

Montreal Draft Tweetup: Day 1

I really appreciate all the messages of support for the Montreal Draft weekend. I am grateful to be working with great people: @amandafortier @metricjulie and @kyleroussel .

It was also a thrill to meet passionate hockey fans and friendly, fun-loving people.

Are we having a good time?

Perhaps one photo can give you a sense of what it is like to be in Montreal this weekend.

FlyersRule video report: On the road to Montreal

FlyersRule: The journey to Montreal begins



FlyersRule: Mileage sign to Montreal



FlyersRule: At the border

An open letter to Pierre McGuire

An open letter (and an invitation) to Pierre McGuire:


Hello Pierre,

On the eve of the 2009 NHL amateur draft in Montreal, I am taking the opportunity to contact you.

First, let me thank you for your analysis and insight on TSN, NBC and the various sports radio stations throughout Canada. You are one of the best in the business on either side of the border. I don't always agree with you opinions but your game and player instincts are superb and your sources well-informed. Besides, you are entertaining!

I have enjoyed the honour of meeting you in person. You were gracious and generous with your time on each occasion. Although I'm sure you have been asked to see 'the ring' a thousand times, you were patient and seemed sincerely proud. But, my admiration grew as I watched you speak with very young hockey players. They, of course, hung on your every word. But, you seemed to thoroughly enjoy the experience and the questions from them. I remember thinking, this guy is truly passionate about hockey.

I am also very fortunate to be in touch with thousands of hockey enthusiasts on a regular basis, who I feel, are equally passionate about the great game of hockey. They are fans, bloggers and users of social media.

As a hockey writer with a focus on the Montreal Canadiens, I have enjoyed being in touch with Habs fans from across the U.S. and Canada. I've also been fortunate to communicate and debate with fans of rival teams. Hockey is a passion we share, and we have embraced the chance to discuss it.

To be frank, I am somewhat puzzled by your reaction, Pierre, to bloggers and amateur writers. Your usually positive nature often turns sour when the subject turns to social media. You never fail to take the opportunity to be aggressively critical towards bloggers.

Sometimes the comments are indirect. When you were told that the Lightning were demanding Andrei Markov in a trade for Vincent Lecavalier, you dismissed it as a ridiculous rumor started by a blogger. In truth, the report came from a hockey reporter for the St. Petersburg Times.

In the Spring, when a discussion between you and Picard on the Team 990 turned to the subject of bloggers, you can imagine my surprise to hear the words "unaccountable", "nameless", "faceless", and "gutless" used to describe them. You went on to say that bloggers are just "looking to score a career" and you agreed when Picard said that bloggers are just "30 year old unemployed losers living in their parent's basement."

Do they want careers in hockey journalism? Most bloggers do not. They are successfully employed in a variety of fields. Some are married and have children. Some play the game and others are coaches and referees. These are decent, intelligent, hard-working individuals who love hockey.

Are they accountable? Bloggers are accountable to their readers. Most blogs that I follow are thoroughly researched and well-written. I won't draw any comparisons to the mainstream media but we also know that everyone in print, TV and radio is not a McGuire or McKenzie.

While sports journalists speak *to* hockey fans, bloggers speak *with* them. They facilitate discussion. Bloggers fill an untapped need. They also do an excellent job of promoting the game and bringing new fans to hockey. And they do this for little or no remuneration. In my book, that is true passion.

Perhaps this is simply a case of misunderstanding. It's always easier to criticize people who are nameless and faceless. But that's easily remedied.

Hockey fans and bloggers from all over the continent are meeting in Montreal this weekend. They are arriving from Boston, Philadelphia, New York, Toronto, Oakland, Tampa, Calgary... The reason? Because they love hockey and want to share the experience of the NHL amateur draft with their fellow social media users.

On Saturday afternoon (June 27th), they will all meet at Ye Olde Orchard (de la Montagne) to meet and talk hockey.

Pierre, you are most welcome to attend and interact with some of the most interesting hockey fans in Canada and the U.S. They will tell you their names and you will see their faces. You may even meet someone who lives with their parents. But most importantly, it may be a learning experience for all.

In closing, I hope that we can agree on this: Regardless of one's position or means, all can be equally passionate about the great game of hockey...even bloggers.


Written on behalf of fans and bloggers attending the Montreal draft weekend


The following is an email reply from Pierre McGuire. I think it was a very classy thing for him to do.

Thanks for the well thought out note. I wish I could accept your invitation for the 27th, but at I will be at a family function on that day. I hope you enjoy the draft and that MTL gets the players they need to become more competitive. Based on your writing it is clear to see that you are well thought-out and poised. However when people who write vicious things about people they have never met or do not even know just because they do not like their opinions, that is the problem I have with some bloggers. Have a blast at your party, and stay in touch.

All the best,

Pierre McGuire

Draft Tweetup: Prizes from the Montreal Canadiens

The generosity of our partner organizations continues to help make the Montreal Draft tweetup a truly memorable event.

All Habs is truly grateful to Jon Trzcienski and the Montreal Canadiens for contributing a number of books and publications as prizes.


Prizes from the Montreal Canadiens:

• current issue of CANADIENS magazine (50 copies)
• Sports Illustrated special hardcover “The Canadiens Century”
• hardcover copy of “Maurice Richard: Reluctant Hero”

Montreal Draft Tweetup: Prizes from the NHL Foundation

Perhaps you would like to take a closer look at some of the prizes that will be available at the Montreal draft weekend. The generosity of our partner organizations will help to make this a truly memorable event.

Prizes will be awarded during the weekend events but particularly at the Montreal Draft Tweetup on Saturday June 27th from 1:00 to 5:00 pm at Ye Olde Orchard Bar and Grill, 1189 de la Montagne.

There are many ways to win. There will be draws and contests throughout the afternoon. A paid raffle will be used to determine the winner of two very special prizes with the proceeds going to "Hockey Fights Cancer". If you would like to donate to this worthwhile charity, click here.

Participants of the Fun Ball Hockey Challenge at McGill University will be eligible for a draw for one of the signed NHL caps.

All Habs is truly grateful to Ann Marie Lynch at the NHL Foundation for providing the unique signed hockey merchandise.


Prizes from the NHL Foundation

*Signed merchandise*

• White cap, NHL logo - signed by the 2008-09 New York Islanders team
  
• White New Era cap, NHL logo - signed by Martin Brodeur
• Montreal Canadiens away jersey - signed by Saku Koivu
• Tampa Bay Lightning away jersey - signed by Vincent Lecavalier
• 2009 Eastern Conference All-Star jersey - signed by the Eastern conference all-stars
• 2009 Western Conference All-Star jersey - signed by the Western conference all-stars

arranged by @umassdilo and @All_Habs

Follow the tweetup in Montreal with video from FlyersRule

Montreal Draft Tweetup Video -- Get there early!

You have been hearing that the Montreal Draft Tweetup is *the* destination for hockey fans this summer. You also know that it will be a weekend full of events and that you will have a chance to win fabulous prizes.

But why take our word for it? Here's the perspective of a hockey fan who is actually making the 'pilgrimage' to Montreal. Read the full story »

RDS: Komisarek will likely test free agent market

RDS.ca (translated)

In all likelihood, the Canadiens defenseman Mike Komisarek will bargain his services next week as he is seriously considering testing the free agent market, RDS has learned.

A free agent without compensation, it is expected that the American 27-year-old is busy training for the new season. Komisarek, one of ten unrestricted free agent players on the Canadiens, received a salary of 1.9 million last season. He could be seeking a salary of about five million annually but the Canadiens would not be willing to go so far to keep him.

RDS contacted his agent Matt Keator who would not comment.

Last year in 66 games, Komisarek found the back of the net twice in addition to raising nine assists.

The other Canadiens unrestricted free agents are Mathieu Schneider, Alex Tanguay, Saku Koivu, Alex Kovalev, Robert Lang, Francis Bouillon, Mathieu Dandenault, Patrice Brisebois and Tom Kostopoulos.

Muller will return behind the Canadiens bench; Jarvis won't.

Canadiens.com

MONTREAL - It’s fitting in a summer that saw a reboot of the Star Trek franchise dominate at the box office that the man they call Captain Kirk will remain behind the Habs bench alongside new head coach Jacques Martin.

Coming off his third season with the Canadiens as an assistant coach, Kirk Muller will continue to pass on to his players what made him a successful player for 19 NHL seasons and a Stanley Cup champion with the Montreal in 1993.

With Muller now confirmed on Martin’s staff, the new Habs bench boss will look to round out his crew by adding another assistant coach and a goalie coach, with Doug Jarvis and Roland Melanson not being back with the team next season.

Manny Almela is a writer for canadiens.com

Who would you choose with the Canadiens first pick?

posted by Rocket
All Habs

The 2009 NHL amateur draft is only days away. It's fair to say that Bob Gainey, Trevor Timmins and the rest of the amateur scouting staff have done a good job re-stocking the Canadiens talent pool that had been depleted prior to their arrival. The Bob Gainey / Trevor Timmins draft selections have not always been predictable nor followed popular opinion (which is probably a good thing) but have received high praise from experts. HockeyFutures.com rates the Montreal Canadiens prospect talent pool as the second best in the NHL.

The buzz in Montreal this draft season is for Louis Leblanc, which may have as much to do with his hometown (Pointe-Claire, QC) as his talent. The hype is reminiscent to 2005, when media and fans alike were advocating that Gainey take Gilbert Brule with the fifth selection overall. We now know that would have been a huge mistake. Brule is a smallish, very inconsistent forward, who has struggled with injuries and to maintain a roster spot at the NHL level.

So what will Gainey do with the 18th pick in this year's draft? Reviewing mock draft opinions from various hockey experts, you find the following players being mentioned as potential choices for the Canadiens: Carter Ashton, Jordan Caron, Landon Ferraro, Peter Holland, Chris Kreider, Louis Leblanc, and Drew Shore.

All of the above players are forwards. While some believe in choosing the best player on the draft board at the time, it's unlikely that Gainey would choose a defenseman given the talent at that position already in the system.

All Habs ranks the following seven players, in order, not only for their talent but their suitability in filling the Canadiens' needs.


Chris Kreider LW, Andover, USHS 6'2", 200 lbs.

Kreider is the best skater in the draft possessing explosive speed. He is a great playmaker, has a good shot, and could be the big-bodied offensive forward that the Canadiens have been searching for. The only knock on Kreider is that he last played at the high school level.


Peter Holland C, Guelph, OHL 6'2", 190 lbs.

Holland seems to have all the qualities to succeed: size, speed and scoring touch. His midterm rankings put him in the top 10. But there are questions about his consistency, taking shifts off, and commitment to defensive responsibilities. With the right coach and development program, his career could be back on track.


Carter Ashton LW, Lethbridge, WHL 6'3", 210 lbs.

Ashton is a true power-forward. He goes to the net strong, skates well and is tough to knock off the puck. He also possesses a terrific shot; very accurate and delivered with a quick release. He needs to improve his play without the puck.


Louis Leblanc C, Omaha, USHL 6'0", 175 lbs.

Leblanc has good hands and hockey sense. He plays well with elite linemates. He has a good work ethic and is very competitive. He needs to improve his skating and is slight in size. He hasn't played against tougher talent.


The following players could probably be obtained by trading down in the draft from the 18th pick.


Landon Ferarro RW, Red Deer, WHL 5'11", 165 lbs.

Ferraro is competitive, fearless and a hard worker. His skating is good and he is a solid two-way player. Ferraro will be a good character player but lacks the size and skill to be a top six forward.


Jordan Caron RW, Rimouski, QMJHL 6'2", 200 lbs.

Caron has size, toughness and isn't afraid to go to the net. He can be an agitator at times. Caron lacks hockey sense, his skating is below par and his defensive game needs work. His ceiling is probably as a third-line forward.


Drew Shore C, U18, NTDP 6'3", 190 lbs.

Shore has size and scoring touch around the net. He plays physical and is relentless in his pursuit of the puck. He needs some work on his skating, his defensive game and a commitment to consistency.

Hockey Barn is coming to Montreal!

The good guys from Hockey Barn will be joining us for the Montreal Draft weekend events.

HockeyBarn.com is “Facebook” for hockey, creating a one-stop destination site for all things hockey. HockeyBarn is a place where players, fans, coaches, parents, and referees of all ages, abilities, interests, and gender, can congregate in the company of people across the world that love hockey.

Click here for the special event page at HockeyBarn.com for the Montreal Draft Meetup. You can join, post comments and photos, and interact with fellow attendees and those who wish they were in Montreal.

Montreal Draft Tweetup -- weekend schedule

As organizers, we have tried to plan a weekend that will maximize your hockey experience, put you in touch with the best sports fans in the world, and give you a taste of the beautiful city of Montreal.

The weekend begins as hockey fans arrive in Montreal from all over the continent...

Friday June 26

Ye Olde Orchard 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

If you have received ticket confirmation from an organizer of the Montreal Draft Tweetup (@all_habs, @amandafortier, @kyleroussel, @metricjulie) you may pick up your admission pass to the 2009 NHL amateur draft at Ye Olde Orchard, 1189 de la Montagne between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. These are general admission tickets. Doors to the Bell Cente will open at 4:00 p.m. Tickets not picked up by 5:00 p.m. will be forfeited.


Bell Centre 7:00 - 11:00 p.m.

2009 NHL amateur draft

You are encouraged to tweet the results of the draft on Twitter and post your photos and comments to our official Montreal draft event page at HockeyBarn.com

After the draft, you are invited to join the group for conversation and beverages at a location to be announced.


Saturday June 27

McGill University Athletics Fieldhouse 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

Meet at the fieldhouse at 9:45 a.m. Participate in the ball hockey challenge. Equipment (and ability) not necessary. Raffle prize: signed NHL merchandise.


Ye Olde Orchard 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Meet passionate hockey fans like yourself. Watch the draft coverage on the NHL Network. Share the experience virtually with your Twitter followers. Trivia contest. Participate in HockeyBuzz podcast. Raffle prizes: NHL merchandise Paid raffles: East and West conference signed All-Star jerseys (proceeds to Hockey Fights Cancer)


The Atrium

Public skating at the Atrium year-round ice surface. Bring your skates or rent.
Raffle prize: NHL merchandise


Attendees return home having met great friends and made special memories at the Montreal Draft weekend!

Montreal Draft Tweetup Central: Your information source

Montreal Draft Tweetup -- weekend schedule

As organizers, we have tried to plan a weekend that will maximize your hockey experience, put you in touch with the best sports fans in the world, and give you a taste of the beautiful city of Montreal.

The weekend begins as hockey fans arrive in Montreal from all over the continent... Read the full story »


Montreal Draft Tweetup: Prizes from the NHL Foundation

Perhaps you would like to take a closer look at some of the prizes that will be available at the Montreal draft weekend. The generosity of our partner organizations will help to make this a truly memorable event. Read the full story »


Hockey Barn is coming to Montreal!

The good guys from Hockey Barn will be joining us for the Montreal Draft weekend events.

HockeyBarn.com is “Facebook” for hockey, creating a one-stop destination site for all things hockey. Read the full story »


Montreal Draft Tweetup Video -- Get there early!

You have been hearing that the Montreal Draft Tweetup is *the* destination for hockey fans this summer. You also know that it will be a weekend full of events and that you will have a chance to win fabulous prizes.

But why take our word for it? Here's the perspective of a hockey fan who is actually making the 'pilgrimage' to Montreal. Read the full story »


Did you pack your skates?

The Montreal Draft Tweetup is an entire weekend of events June 26 - June 28 with something for everyone.

What would a hockey event in Montreal be without a chance to lace up the skates? Even at the end of June? No problem! Read the full story »


Prizes, prizes, we have prizes!

If you are a regular All Habs reader, you already know that there are many reasons to come to the Montreal Draft Tweetup. Still not convinced? Would you reconsider if you had a chance to go home with one of many special hockey prizes?

We have been overwhelmed with the generosity of our partner organizations to help make the Montreal event a truly memorable weekend. Read the full story »


Take Part in the First Tweetup Hockey Challenge!

Coming to Montreal next week for the Draft Tweetup? You should be because we continue to elevate this "mother of all hockey tweetups with great activities, sponsors and prizes.

No hockey event in Montreal would be complete without playing a game of pick up hockey, even in late June when summer has officially started. Read the full story »


Draft Tweetup: Are you coming to Montreal?

• Perhaps you want the chance to meet fellow hockey fans from across the U.S. and Canada.
• Or it could be your opportunity to visit the beautiful, vibrant and romantic city of Montreal.
• Maybe you will be one of the lucky few attending the NHL amateur draft in person, watching the likes of John Tavares, Matt Duchene, Victor Hedman, Brayden Schenn, or Evander Kane being selected by your favorite team.

Whatever your reason, you probably know that attending a hockey event in Montreal is like no other around the league. This is a rare chance. Read the full story »


NHL Draft TweetUp - Information about the Great City of Montreal

We’ve had a lot of questions about how to get around in Montreal, where to stay and what to do while you're here. To try and help everyone who is coming in for the Draft NHL Tweetup, we’ve compiled some general information to point you in the right direction. Read the full story »


RSVP here using Twitvite:

Montreal fires Bulldogs coaches

Lever, Wilson dumped by phone

TheSpec.com
Garry McKay

The Hamilton Bulldogs will have a new coaching staff this season.

Don Lever, who is the franchise’s longest-serving head coach, and his assistant Ron Wilson, who has been here even longer, have been told by the parent Montreal Canadiens that their services are no longer required.

Although both were long-time employees of the Canadiens, the Habs told them by phone that their contracts would not be renewed. they weren't given a reason.

Both were, in effect, fired by Montreal general manager Bob Gainey who phoned them last week and said simply that ‘the organization is going in a different direction.”

Lever said he would like to have at least been given a reason for his dismissal.

“I’m very disappointed,” said Lever. “Somewhere along the line I must have done something wrong, but they didn’t tell me what it was.

“I just don’t understand how I can be called up and then discarded.”

When Gainey fired Habs head coach Guy Carbonneau late in the season he summoned Lever to Montreal to help them in their drive to the playoffss.

Wilson was appointed interim Bulldogs head coach on March 9. They went 10-3-2-0 in the final 15 games and overtook Grand Rapids to finish second in the North Division but lost to the Griffins in a six-game divisional semi-final series.

That apparently wasn’t good enough for the Habs, nor was the fact that many of the players currently in Montreal were developed in Hamilton under Lever and Wilson.

Guelph’s Holland Impresses In NHL Draft year

From: Hockey Now
By Steve Fitzsimmons

After a modest eight-goal and 23-point rookie season, questions were raised on how much improvement Guelph Storm C Peter Holland would show in his second OHL campaign, after being the Storm’s first round pick in the 2007 draft. Those questions have been answered quite forcefully, as Holland has sizzled, with 10 goals and 21 points in his first 19 games, putting him tied for eighth in league scoring.

The 6-2, 190-pound Caledon, Ont.-native feels the improvement is largely due to work he did on his skating stride in the off-season and having more confidence in himself.

“I came back with a lot more confidence. I’ve been playing with great linemates and I’ve been fortunate enough to get some bounces. I also did a lot of work this summer with Barb Underhill, our power skating coach and really improved my stride and got a little bit faster.

“When you’re faster the game is a lot easier. You have more time for yourself. Ever since minor hockey, I’ve had some pretty decent hands. Getting good passes and incorporating my hands into that, has really got me some better scoring opportunities and shots,” said Holland.

Guelph Storm head coach Jason Brooks feels that Holland is working very hard on improving all aspects of his game.

“His greatest attribute is he is so committed. He wants to be a player. He works at his game. He works hard at getting stronger. He does all the little things. He watches a lot of video of himself of how he can improve his game. I think that is his greatest asset because he’s a good skater, but he wants to be a better skater. He’s a good scorer and he works on his shot. He wants to work on all the little intangibles that make him that much better,” Brooks said.

Ranked as a potential first round pick for the 2009 NHL Draft, Holland is trying to not get caught up in the hype and just focus on helping his team win.

“I’m more just setting team goals, trying to help us get as many wins as we can and move forward from there,” said Holland.

Teammate and Detroit Red Wings first round pick G Tom McCollum sees a definite evolution in Holland’s game and thinks he is a special talent.

“I think that Peter is a fantastic player. He has great speed and he handles the puck well and has a great nose for the net. I think that he has progressed from last year in that this season he looks to make the simple play and has learned to use his line mates to his advantage,” ?said McCollum.

Mark Edwards of hockeyprospect.com has watched Holland extensively and feels he’s really evolving into being one of the better players in the 2009 draft class.

“I thought he was one of the top players in his OHL draft year. Now he is getting the ice time and he is showing why he was a first round pick. He has an NHL frame and a great skill set to go along with his size. He’s very tough to knock off the puck and being in the top 15 picks in the NHL draft is within his reach.”

A Western Conference NHL scout, who follows the OHL extensively, feels that Holland has gotten a step quicker this season and is a player who might surge up the draft board.

“I think a lot of teams like this guy. He works hard, has great reach and is showing some excellent offensive upside, along with a strong awareness of his defensive responsibilities. He’s in a good program and he might go a lot higher in the draft that you might think right now.”

Montreal Draft Tweetup Video -- Get there early!

Posted by Rocket
Video by FlyersRule


You have been hearing that the Montreal Draft Tweetup is *the* destination for hockey fans this summer. You also know that it will be a weekend full of events and that you will have a chance to win fabulous prizes.

But why take our word for it? Here's the perspective of a hockey fan who is actually making the 'pilgrimage' to Montreal.

FlyersRule is packed and ready to make the trek from the land of orange to be with her fellow hockey fans in the city of bleu, blanc et rouge. It promises to be a very memorable weekend.

All Habs has managed to secure FlyersRule as our official 'foreign' correspondent to give a unique glimpse into the event from the vantage point of a new visitor to Montreal. (Who says a Flyers fan and a Canadiens fan can't collaborate?)

After watching the compelling video, if you are convinced that you too must attend the Montreal Draft Tweetup, be sure to RSVP here today!

If you aren't able to join us, make a regular visit to All Habs to share a virtual experience with your friends in Montreal via updates from FlyersRule. If there is anything/anyone you wish FlyersRule to cover/interview in an update, leave her a comment below. Or, just let her know what you think of the video!

George Gillett and Geoff Molson announce agreement in principle

Montreal Canadiens
Jun 20, 2009, 6:04 PM EDT
PRESS RELEASE

MONTREAL – George N. Gillett Jr and Geoff Molson announced today that they have reached an agreement in principle for the sale of the Gillett family’s interests in the Montreal Canadiens Hockey Club, the Bell Centre and Gillett Entertainment Group. They will hold a news conference as soon as the agreement is finalized.

Mr. Gillett was very appreciative of the extraordinary interest shown by a number of parties in
the Montreal Canadiens, and acknowledged the fine work accomplished by the organization’s
management over the past eight years.

Congratulating and thanking Mr. Molson for the winning bid, Mr. Gillett said that he was pleased to return the ownership of the Canadiens to the Molson family, a family that has been
associated with the Club for over three generations and committed to the Montreal community
for seven generations over a 223 year period.

“ Our family has been very proud to be associated with the Montreal Canadiens over the past
eight years and particularly to be a part of their Centennial Season. I am fully confident that the
Molson brothers, who have been a great part of the heritage of the Club, will ensure the
preservation and development of this great sports institution, ” said Mr. Gillett.

Geoff Molson said he was very happy with Mr. Gillett’s decision to accept his group’s proposal
and that he hoped the Board of Governors of the National Hockey League would look favourably on the transaction.

Mr. Molson said he is conscious that the Montreal Canadiens Hockey Club is a heritage asset
for the Montreal community and that with his brothers Andrew and Justin he would endeavour to maintain the tradition of the prestigious club while working with management to build a strong team on the ice and aim to bring back the Stanley Cup to Montreal.

“This is a very exciting time for our family and we are grateful to the many people and
organizations who came forward to offer their collaboration in the development of our proposal,“ said Mr. Molson.

The price and other modalities of the agreement in principle were not disclosed. The next steps include finalizing the agreement and approval by the Board of Governors of the National Hockey League before the closing of the transaction which is expected in late August.

Who are the Molson brothers?

Cyberpresse.ca (translated)

They were three brothers from the seventh generation of a powerful dynasty ...

No, this is not the beginning of a fantastic legend. Rather, the new chapter is being written in the sale of the Montreal Canadiens. Geoffrey, Andrew and Justin Molson are not well-known to the general public.

So who are they?

Geoffrey E. Molson, 38, freshly arrived on the board of Molson Coors (he was elected there are only two weeks) will not have time to make the headlines. He has already admitted he was less reserved than his father, Eric H. Molson, the very man who recently retired from the Chair of the Board of Molson Coors.

Geoffrey, who is Vice President of Marketing for Molson Canada since 2006, dreams of one day occupy that position comes from his father succumb to Peter Coors. But for now, its aspirations are elsewhere. He revived the speculation by confessing, in a statement that he and his brothers wanted to put the Canadiens in the hands of Molson for the third time.

Their grandfather Thomas, together with his brother Hartland, bought the Habs in 1957. Eric and their father was among the senior leaders of the Molson brewery when it acquired the team from the Bronfman brothers in 1978.

Today, Geoffrey is a board member of the Montreal Canadiens, including Molson Coors still holds 19.9% share.

A big fan of hockey, Molson Geoffrey was educated at the St. Lawrence University, in New York ... among other reasons because it was a good hockey program. It is at St.Lawrence where he met his wife, originally from Boston. "The only condition included in our marriage contract is that she can no longer support the Bruins," he previously told the magazine Les Affaires.

He holds an MBA from Babson College, Geoffrey Molson has worked for six years in various U.S. companies, including Coca-Cola, before joining the sales department of the company Molson in 1999. He then launched the U.S. subsidiary of Molson in Denver - before the merger with Coors - then he returned to Montreal three years ago. Since it closely follows the activities of the Habs, assistant each year to a score of matches his team favorite.

The bilingual nature of Montreal is not immune to Geoffrey Molson, whose children attend the French school. "I speak french to my children and I'm still in french in Montreal, he told the magazine Les Affaires. It has always been important to my family to be bilingual. "

They know Boivin

Andrew Molson for its headquarters as vice president on the board of Molson Coors. But he is also vice president of RES PUBLICA Consulting, the parent company of National, the public relations firm which he joined in 1997.

A man of 41 years has built an impressive resume school before entering the business world. He studied law at Laval University before joining the bar in 1994. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University and an MA in corporate governance and business ethics at the University of London.

In Montreal, Andrew Molson is very visible in community activities. He is engaged in the activities of the McCord Museum, Concordia University and the Fondation de l'Hôpital Sainte-Justine. The latter title he is to meet Pierre Boivin, the current president of the Canadien. While it is within the board of the club with his brother Geoffrey became acquainted with Mr. Boivin ...

Little is known about the youngest of the family, Justin Molson. The latter is left out of the beer business of the family. He is a landscape architect in Vermont, where he lives with his family.

Report: Montreal Canadiens sold to the Molson family

from La Presse (translated)

An agreement in principle on the sale of the Montreal Canadiens and the Bell Center at the Molson family has been concluded, the Press has learned from several reliable sources. The transaction will be announced by news release in late afternoon.

The amount of the transaction, which should also include the Gillett Entertainment Group, is "well above 500 million," says a source.

In its online edition, Friday, SportsBusiness Journal reports that the sale could bring up to $ 610 million the current owner, George Gillett, a sum that far exceeds the most optimistic estimates made so far.

According to a usually well informed source, the former CEO of Canadian, Serge Savard, would play "an important" to buyers, without being an investor.

Three weeks ago, Savard, previously interested in buying the club had announced its withdrawal "on the sidelines" for the brothers Geoffrey, Andrew and Justin Molson.

Member of the Board of Molson Coors, which still owns 19.9% of the shares of Canadian, Geoffrey Molson is also a member of the Canadiens' Board. When the family announced its desire to acquire the club in late May, he had indicated he would not participate in the deliberations of the two councils on the sale of the team.

In addition to Molson, a consortium formed by Quebecor Media Productions Feeling Rene Angelil and the Fonds de solidarité de la FTQ announced publicly that he had tabled an offer for the properties of George Gillett. Businessman Stephen Bronfman was also on the ranks. American groups were also reportedly interested.

George Gillett, has purchased the 80.1% of the Canadian, Bell Center and the division of Molson shows for $ 275 million in 2001.

Beliveau put Canadiens ahead of personal glory

CBC.ca
Thu Jun 18, 6:52 PM

Hockey legend Jean Béliveau earned nearly every individual award an NHL player could ever desire during his 20-year Hall of Fame career.

Béliveau won his only Art Ross Trophy given to the NHL's regular-season scoring champion in 1956, collected a pair of Hart trophies as league MVP and played in 14 all-star games, representing the Montreal Canadiens.

The Trois-Rivières native also became the first player to be named the Stanley Cup playoffs' Conn Smythe Trophy winner in 1965.

Yet Béliveau never paid too much attention to his impressive list of personal accomplishments he was too busy helping the Habs win a remarkable 10 Stanley Cup titles to concern himself with any solo triumphs.

"I've always said that personal records come after the team records," the 77-year-old Béliveau told CBC Sports Hall of Fame broadcaster Dick Irvin as part of the Canadiens' 100th anniversary season. "Play for the team."

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman presented Béliveau with the 2009 NHL Lifetime Achievement Award in Las Vegas on Thursday.

The league began this tradition by making hockey icon Gordie Howe its first recipient last season.

The Canadiens needed a captain their 20th in franchise history - to begin the 1961 season.

Béliveau, sporting a cast on his foot from an injury during the team's training camp in B.C., was driven by his wife to the old Montreal Forum at the request of coach Toe Blake.

There, Blake dropped the bombshell on the unsuspecting Béliveau.

"Toe called me, and he said, 'Jean, you know that we have to vote for captain, can you come?' I was in a cast but I said, 'Sure,'" remembered Béliveau. "Toe came out from this little room and came towards me, shook my hand and said, 'Boys, here's your new captain.'

"I couldn't believe it, I almost fell [off] the bench. It was a big surprise.

"I was not even an assistant captain. It's one of my after the Stanley Cups, it's certainly one of the nicest things that could happen to me in my life."

Béliveau wasted little time in getting accustomed to his new responsibility as he immediately addressed the rest of the players.

"When I was named captain, I got up after Toe shook my hand and I told my teammates, 'If you think I can be of any help with your career, even with personal situations or family [matters], my line is open 24 hours."

Fittingly, Béliveau's last act as the team's longest-serving captain was accepting the 1971 Stanley Cup from NHL president Clarence Campbell after Montreal upset the Chicago Blackhawks in Game 7.

"Watching Béliveau carrying the Cup in Chicago was special," Irvin told CBCSports.ca. "It was his 10th Stanley Cup and, to me, that was a wonderful moment for the history of the Canadiens because he meant so much to them."

Perhaps no illustration of Béliveau's modesty and team-first approach was better told than by Hockey Night In Canada's Bob Cole.

Recalling a story in one of his blogs for CBCSports.ca, Cole said he had just finished doing his usual play-by-play of a Canadiens-Bruins game at the old Boston Garden several years ago, which Montreal won in overtime.

The team had set up a VIP lounge after the game, with Cole and broadcast partner Mickey Redmond invited to drop by.

When Béliveau walked in, a woman asked the Montreal great if he had scored many overtime goals in his career.

True to form, Béliveau couldn't remember one time where he netted an OT winner.

"Yes, you did Mr. Béliveau," interjected Cole. "You scored a goal for Montreal right here in the Boston Garden.

"It was in the second overtime in a game in the 1969 playoffs. You scored the goal and won the game on a pass from Claude Provost at 11:28 of the second overtime.

"Jean nodded and, after a while, his eyes got larger and he said, 'I did?' [And] I said, 'Yes, it was a great goal, top corner, under the bar.'

"He couldn't believe it."

Did you pack your skates?

The Montreal Draft Tweetup is an entire weekend of events June 26 - June 28 with something for everyone.

What would a hockey event in Montreal be without a chance to lace up the skates? Even at the end of June? No problem!

The venue is The Atrium / L'Atrium. "In the heart of downtown, bathed in warm light flowing through its magnificent glass dome and dancing on the surface of the indoor skating rink of the prestigious Le 1000 De La Gauchetière, you will find the dream spot to enjoy an outing with family or friends."

Yes, public skating is a family friendly event. Skating expertise is not required. Folding chairs aren't allowed but maybe you will find a friend to lend an arm of support!

So, don't forget to pack your blades. If you prefer, skates can be rented at the Atrium for a nominal fee.

To indicate your interest, simply leave a comment to this post.

You Could Win Draft Tickets

You would like to go to the 2009 NHL amateur draft but you don't have tickets. What to do? Visit All Habs!

All Habs will be giving away 2 tickets (1 each) to two lucky winners. They are general admission tickets to the Bell Centre for the NHL draft.

To be eligible, you have to be in Montreal and available to go to the draft on Friday June 26th.

(Be sure that you are also planning to attend the Montreal draft tweetup at Ye Olde Orchard, 1189 de la Montagne on Saturday June 27 from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.)

It's easy to enter. Choose one of two ways:

1. Be an All Habs member. On the All Habs website, scroll down until the All Habs Members section appears in the right red section. Click "Follow". All current All Habs members are already entered.

OR

2. On Twitter, send an @ reply to All_Habs. Be sure that you are following All_Habs so that I can DM you if you are a lucky winner.


Contest will close for entries on Sunday June 21, 2009 at 5:00 EDT. Winners will be chosen by random draw and notified on Monday June 22nd. Only the winners will be contacted.

Tickets must be picked up in person at Ye Olde Orchard on Friday June 26th at 4:00 p.m. Tickets not picked up will be forfeited and redistributed.

Good luck!

Prizes, prizes, we have prizes!

If you are a regular All Habs reader, you already know that there are many reasons to come to the Montreal Draft Tweetup. Still not convinced? Would you reconsider if you had a chance to go home with one of many special hockey prizes?

We have been overwhelmed with the generosity of our partner organizations to help make the Montreal event a truly memorable weekend.

Prizes will be awarded during the weekend events but particularly at the Montreal Draft Tweetup on Saturday June 27th from 1:00 to 5:00 pm at Ye Olde Orchard Bar and Grill, 1189 de la Montagne.

There are many ways to win. You will get a chance to win something just for RSVP'ing and being present at the tweetup. There will also be draws and contests throughout the afternoon. A paid raffle will be used to determine the winner of two very special prizes with the proceeds going to "Hockey Fights Cancer". If you would like to donate to this worthwhile charity, click here.

All Habs would like to thank the Hockey Hall of Fame, Versus and the NHL for contributing prizes to the event. A very special thank you to Ann Marie Lynch at the NHL Foundation for providing the unique signed hockey merchandise.


Prizes:

The NHL Foundation

*Signed merchandise*

• White cap, NHL logo - signed by the 2008-09 New York Islanders team
  
• White New Era cap, NHL logo - signed by Martin Brodeur
• Montreal Canadiens away jersey - signed by Saku Koivu
• Tampa Bay Lightning away jersey - signed by Vincent Lecavalier
• 2009 Eastern Conference All-Star jersey - signed by the Eastern conference all-stars
• 2009 Western Conference All-Star jersey - signed by the Western conference all-stars

arranged by @umassdilo and @All_Habs


Hockey Hall of Fame

• 2 pairs of admission passes

arranged by @kicksavetwenty and @dani3boyz


NHL

• NHL All-Star Game 2009 Old Time Hockey shirt (2)

arranged by @umassdilo and @All_Habs


Versus

• Hockey pucks

arranged by @dani3boyz


Sponsor:

Hockeybuzz.com


Partners:

Ye Olde Orchard

McGill Athletics

Delta Centre-Ville

Fairmont Queen Elizabeth

Kovalev, Nash, Brown finalists for NHL Foundation award for charities

The Canadian Press

NEW YORK - Alex Kovalev of the Montreal Canadiens, Rick Nash of the Columbus Blue Jackets and Dustin Brown of the Los Angeles Kings are being recognized for their charity work.

The three players have all been named finalists for the NHL Foundation Player Award, which honours a player's "commitment and service to charities in his community."

The NHL Foundation will donate US$25,000 to the winner's choice of charity.

Kovalev created the Kovalev and Friends Foundation for Children which sends doctors to Russia to perform operations and transfer medical knowledge.

In 2008, the Russian produced a DVD of hockey tips and skills that has raised$120,000 so far, with 100 per cent of the profits going to the Gift of Life Foundation, which provides open heart surgery for children. Kovalev himself suffered fro a heart ailment as a child.

Nash set up the 61 Club to encourage students to make healthy choices and donated $100,000 to Ohio State University to endow a scholarship for a student-athlete.

Brown has helped tackle childhood obesity. He partnered with KaBOOM, whose goal is to provide places to play within walking distance of every child in the United States. He donated $50 for each of his hits this season to raise $35,000 toward building a playground in his hometown of Ithaca, N.Y.

All three are also involved in other causes.

The winner will be announced June 18 at the NHL awards show in Las Vegas.

Last year's co-winners were Trevor Linden and Vincent Lecavalier. The award was first presented in 1998 to Kelly Chase.

Take Part in the First Tweetup Hockey Challenge!

Coming to Montreal next week for the Draft Tweetup? You should be because we continue to elevate this "mother of all hockey tweetups with great activities, sponsors and prizes.

No hockey event in Montreal would be complete without playing a game of pick up hockey, even in late June when summer has officially started.

Forget the Stanley Cup finals and ignore salary caps! On Saturday, June 27th, McGill University Athletics has granted us use of their Fieldhouse and equipment to play the first of what will hopefully be many annual Tweetup Hockey Challenges at the annual NHL Entry Draft.

This will be a FUN game, open to guys and girls of ALL skill levels. Essentially, if you have a heartbeat, you can (and should) play! However, space is limited. We're looking for enough recruits to fill 2 teams (11 per team, goalie included). You will not have to bring any equipment with you in your travels except for running shoes, and whatever you want to wear. Equipment such as gloves and helmet are optional, and not required. However if you're like me and can't play hockey without gloves, it would be a good idea to leave some extra room in your luggage for them.

If you choose not to play, you are still encouraged to come be one of the coaches, determine line combinations and, *ahem*, "strategy". We're also looking for a ref who will also moonlight as in-game commissioner (to make trades as he/she sees fit to keep the game evenly matched).

The deal will be sweetened for the winning team, so you do want to score at least 1 more goal than the other side! Who's going to be the Max Talbot of the Tweetup Hockey Challenge?

How to reserve your spot? Don't be shy!

Leave a comment below and let us know if you'll participate as a player, coach or referee. In order to help us stay organized, only by posting here on this blog can you reserve your spot. Twitter posts, or comments left on other blogs, emails, voicemails, fax, snail mail, telegrams, telegraph and morse code will not be accepted.

Thanks to hockeybuzz.com for sponsoring this amazing and unique event!

Canadiens memorabilia for sale

All Habs has been contacted by a reader and an avid Habs fan about Canadiens memorabilia for sale. It includes some great pieces from the closing of the Montreal Forum.

The list is as follows:

• 1923-1924 Stanley Cup banner
• Bench door, McDonalds logo
  
• Goal
• Goal light post
• Podium
• Lockers (2): Pierre Turgeon #77 and Vincent Damphousse #25

If you have serious interest in any of the items, please send an email to allhabs@gmail.com and we will make the connection for you with the owner. Please be sure to identify the item of interest and any questions you may have.

IMPORTANT: All Habs does not verify the authenticity of the merchandise and will bear no responsibility nor play any role in the transaction.

Montreal Draft Tweetup welcomes a new sponsor!

The excitement continues to build as we get closer to the 2009 NHL amateur draft and the Montreal draft tweetup weekend. Have you sent your RSVP?



All Habs is pleased to welcome Hockeybuzz.com to the fold as an official sponsor of the Montreal draft tweetup. Hockeybuzz is a collective of bloggers and correspondents from around the league and one of the most popular hockey rumor sites on the net.

There will be a live Hockeybuzzcast Podcast from the Montreal tweetup headquarters -- Ye Olde Orchard Pub -- at 3pm, on Saturday June 27th. Drop by and visit. Give your opinions of the draft selections and any of the potential blockbuster trades that may happen on draft weekend.

Draft Tweetup: Are you coming to Montreal?

Are you coming to Montreal?

• Perhaps you want the chance to meet fellow hockey fans from across the U.S. and Canada.
• Or it could be your opportunity to visit the beautiful, vibrant and romantic city of Montreal.
• Maybe you will be one of the lucky few attending the NHL amateur draft in person, watching the likes of John Tavares, Matt Duchene, Victor Hedman, Brayden Schenn, or Evander Kane being selected by your favorite team.

Whatever your reason, you probably know that attending a hockey event in Montreal is like no other around the league. This is a rare chance.

Fans who trek to Montreal to watch their favorite team play the Canadiens universally report that there is something different and palpable about how hockey is embraced in this city. Montreal is the mecca for hockey fans. Special things happen in the city that is home to 24 Stanley Cup winning teams.

Similarly this will be an opportunity to attend a hockey tweetup like no other. Loyal, passionate and knowledgeable hockey fans will get together to meet, enjoy, and follow day two of the 2009 NHL amateur draft.

For those already living in Montreal, it is your chance to meet with hockey fans and bloggers from across the continent.

The Montreal Draft Tweetup headquarters will be Ye Olde Orchard Pub and Grill. Ye Olde Orchard is a friendly Celtic Pub located on the first floor of a beautiful downtown heritage building within walking distance of the Bell Centre.

Other draft weekend events include a fun road hockey challenge playing at McGill University and skating on the year-round ice at the Atrium.

You'll even have a chance to win hockey prizes from the Hockey Hall of Fame, NHL Foundation, Versus and others.



If you haven't yet signed up, do so today before it's too late!

Canadiens win 24th Stanley Cup - June 9, 1993

Want to be part of Hockey History?

Montreal Draft Tweetup


All Habs will be hosting a Tweetup in Montreal for the NHL amateur draft. This is a unique opportunity for passionate fans from all over the continent to come together to network and celebrate hockey. Besides Montreal, there are confirmed attendees from Boston, Philadelphia, Toronto, New York, Detroit, Tampa and San Jose.




Events will take place on Friday June 26 and Saturday June 27.


Partnerships

Fairmont Queen Elizabeth and Delta – Centreville have established special Tweetup rates for our out-of-town attendees.

Check out their reduced rates and information about the great city of Montreal.

The Hockey Hall of Fame and the NHL have provided prizes.

The NHL has provided a limited number of tickets to the draft.


Schedule of Events

Friday June 26

Bell Centre – 2009 NHL Amateur Draft (tickets are limited)

Saturday June 27

McGill University – Fun hockey challenge

Downtown location – Montreal Draft Tweetup

Atrium – Group Skating (family event)



See you there! Register today!!