Habster’s take:

In an interview with La Presse’s Richard Labbé, Canadiens owner George Gillett states that the Canadiens were very much in the hunt for Daniel Briere right to the end. He was convinced that Briere would sign with the Habs at one point during negotiations until the last 20 minutes when he decided to sign with the Flyers. Gillett also feels that the Canadiens are a stronger team than last year and was confident with the moves Bob Gainey made. He mentions that the Canadiens have the opportunity to add another player or two during the upcoming season as their salary commitment of $44 million will give them some flexibility. Gillett also believes Carey Price could make the Habs out of training camp and play well at the NHL level.