Monday, 23.11.2009 / 6:51 PM
canadiens.com

MONTREAL –Playing for the Canadiens is special and Benoit Pouliot knows it.

Drafted just ahead of Carey Price at fourth overall at the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, Pouliot didn’t hesitate when it came to describing what he will bring to the Habs.

“I’m all about speed and offense. That’s my game,” explained Pouliot via conference from his home in Minneapolis moments after hearing of his trade to the Canadiens in exchange for Guillaume Latendresse. “I’m ready to work hard and prove what I can do to my new team.”

Like Latendresse, Pouliot faced high expectations but struggled to become the power forward the Wild has been expecting. The big winger, however, isn’t about to throw in the towel at only age 23.

“I haven’t had the start to my career that I wanted,” admitted Pouliot, who will wear the No. 57 for the Canadiens. “The defensive system we had in Minnesota wasn’t easy for me, but that’s not an excuse. All I know is this a new beginning for me, a fresh start.”

A native of Alfred, ON right near the Quebec border, Pouliot hardly needs a crash course in what the Montreal Canadiens are all about.

“I grew up only a half hour away. I watched the Canadiens on TV all the time and I’ve been a Habs fan my whole life,” revealed Pouliot. “Montreal is the ultimate hockey market. I know what to expect. This is going to be a lot of fun and I’m excited to be a Montreal Canadien.”

Manny Almela is a writer for canadiens.com