Canadiens.com: Gorges inks three-year pact
Habster:
Josh Gorges gets a well deserved raise over his salary of last year ($495,000) and was by far the most improved Habs player. He was one of the most consistent defensemen who really turned the corner at the midway point of the season when he was teamed with Francis Bouillon. They gave the Canadiens solid third pairing minutes and really complimented each other.
Gorges also didn’t look out of place when he replaced the injured Mike Komisarek on the top defensive pairing for the last 7-8 games of the season.
What struck me the most about Josh Gorges’ improved play was how many battles he won along the boards and how his game was adaptable depending on the game’s style of play. If the game had a lot of physicality, Gorges was more than willing to get his nose dirty and raise his physical game. If the game was fast paced with great passing, then Gorges was able to display his good passing, decision making and skating skills.
Another thing that impresses me about Gorges is how well spoken he is off the ice. He really understands the game and is very honest about his feelings when being interviewed by the media.
Needless to say, Gainey made one of his best trades as a GM when he acquired Josh Gorges and a 2007 1st round pick (Habs drafted Max Pacioretty) from the Sharks for Craig Rivet at the 2007 trade deadline. Since that time, Rivet has been traded to Buffalo while Gorges and Pacioretty will be key players for the Habs for years to come!!!!