Well, Montreal Canadiens fans got their first taste of a trade, but it wasn't this one that they were exactly dying for, and no, it was nothing to do with Sheldon Souray.
About 15 minutes ago, the San Jose Sharks' official website reported the Montreal Canadiens traded long-time defenceman Craig Rivet to them, along with a 5th round draft pick in 2007 for Josh Gorges and a 2007 first round pick.
Rivet has been suffering from a severe case of pneumonia for all of February and was long rumoured to be dealt, especially after Habs' head coach Guy Carbonneau made him a healthy scratch. Rivet was quote "steaming" after he learned this and stormed out of the Bell Centre after a morning skate.
The Canadiens pick up 22-year old defenceman Josh Gorges in this deal. Gorges is a very good defenceman although, his offensive side has yet to show this season.
Gorges, in 47 games this season, has 4 points; 1 goal and 3 assists and is a -3 this season.
Rivet, him in 54 games, has 6 goals and 10 assists. Notably, he has struggled defensively and posts a mediocre -7 rating.
He will provide some much needed playoff experience on a Stanley Cup thirsty San Jose Sharks team.
A great pickup by GM Bob Gainey, really. He dumps an impending UFA who wore out his time here in Montreal for a young defenceman in Josh Gorges, whom will hopefully develop and mature into a fine defenseman for the years to come and become a force on the Canadiens' blue line.
BUT...with Montreal acquiring a first round draft choice from San Jose, is it too early to say it's likely they have agreed to trade their own to bring in a scoring player such as, say, Bill Guerin?
Is it really that far off? You never know with Bob Gainey.
And on a last note, as a Habs fan...thank you Craig, for what you have given us all these years with your leadership, strength and determination. Happy trails!
Bleu, Blanc et Rouge.
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