Habster’s take:
I would have preferred the Canadiens announcing the addition of Danny Markov or Andy Sutton to the roster but it would have cost the Habs 4 or 5 times the $700,000 they’re paying Patrice Brisebois (the contract allegedly has an additional $700,000 in performance bonuses). If they limit his playing time to 14-17 minutes a game, use him on the third pairing and allow him to man the point on the powerplay then he can be effective. Guy Carbonneau and the coaching staff have to use Brisebois in the right places and not over work him especially on the penalty kill ( not a Brisebois strong point). Markov, Komisarek, Bouillon and Hamrlik should do the majority of the PK duties( I really think Ryan O’Bryne would be good on the PK as well).
Hopefully Ryan O’Bryne will be given a fair chance at training camp to win a roster position after the Brisebois signing. O’Bryne was very impressive in the AHL playoffs where he was the Hamilton Bulldogs best defenseman during their championship drive. Many were especially impressed with his defensive zone / PK work against Chicago and Hersey.
Like most Habs fans, I’m very skeptical about this signing and hope it’s not Brisebois’ friend, Guy Carbonneau who has influenced Bob Gainey’s decision. The Canadiens have some very good prospects like O’Bryne, Valentenko and Cote who hopefully will not regress in their development with Brisebois back in the organization. If Brisebois is used properly and remains healthy, he will be an effective player for the Habs. Time will tell, Habs fans!!!!
