On Frozen Pond (George Richards):
Rumors have it that Montreal is shopping Michael Ryder, and I would think the Panthers have an interest with Ville Peltonen out a substantial — six/eight weeks — bit of time with his broken foot. Ryder has scored 30 goals the past two seasons, but is struggling so much this season he’s been a healthy scratch. Ryder has three goals and seven assists this season.
He hasn’t scored a goal since Nov. 16 at Buffalo and hasn’t so much as recorded a point since getting two helpers against Boston on Nov. 17. Change of scenery — and some sunshine — might be what Ryder needs.
Habster:
I don’t see this being a good fit for Bob Gainey as Jacques Martin doesn’t have a lot of talented forwards to trade (thus the need to acquire Ryder) which would be something Gainey would request in return. The only thing Martin could offer Gainey would be Jozef Stumpel or maybe Anthony Stewart who hasn’t lived up to his first rounder status. There isn’t a lot in their system as well with the possible except of centers Shawn Matthias or Michael Frolik whose acquisition would require more than just Ryder. Gainey needs to package Ryder with other players to obtain a player who will help the Canadiens now.
I know some people are thinking Olli Jokinen or Nathan Horton but that isn’t going to happen unless you throw in some bigger/untouchable names like Komisarek or Higgins or Price. Just a rumour folks…..fun to look at the potential possibilities!!!
