Rocket:
For early-season hockey, this wasn’t bad! Actually, it was a very good game! The Canadiens showed some grit and didn’t panic when they got down a goal. Hard work and going to the net paid off exposing the real Marty Biron on this night. A good character-building win.
It may have even been a better contest if the guys in stripes didnt want to play a starring role. I’m not the type that complains about the officiating so you know when I do, it had to be bad. And on this night, it was awful. The referees were very inconsistent and there were a number of bad calls and missed penalties. Perhaps one of the best examples was the phantom interference call on Komisarek. A short time later there was a weak penalty call on Plekanec and the Flyers had a long 5 on 3 advantage.
Carey Price was the best penalty killer in this game for the Habs. He was spectacular at times especially during the 5 on 3. Another save of the season! (that’s 2 already including the one in preseason) Price’s puckhandling was very good too (and it had to be) as he covered for his defenseman at times, especially #71.
Carbonneau is still wearing blinders where Brisebois is concerned. Stubbornness is one of Carbo’s worst qualities and he seems determined to prove everyone wrong about Brise. Unfortunately most everyone knows that Brisebois’ NHL career is over. It is painfully obvious as he gets beat on every shift. Strap his defensive partners to a a polygraph and I wager that Gorges and Hamrlik would say the same thing. Brisebois is a huge liability everytime he steps on the ice.
I must also express disappointment that Carbonneau chose not to dress Chipchura for any of the first 3 games. Chipchura looked good in training camp and Lapierre has done nothing to warrant staying in the line-up.
This was another dominant performance by the Kostitsyn brothers, especially Andrei. Roman Hamrlik had another strong game. I expect that Tanguay and Koivu will be much better when Higgins returns. Let’s hope it is soon. As far as the much advertised skating lessons…I suggest you get your money back Gui.
This was another dominant performance by the Kostitsyn brothers, especially Andrei. Roman Hamrlik had another strong game. I expect that Tanguay and Koivu will be much better when Higgins returns. Let’s hope it is soon. As far as the much advertised skating lessons…I suggest you get your money back Gui.
It was a great road trip to begin the season! We look forward to the home opener!
Pregame:
Shocking news about the death of 19 year old Alexei Cherepanov.
Rocket’s 3 stars:
1. Andrei Kostitsyn
2. Carey Price
3. Jeff Carter
2. Carey Price
3. Jeff Carter
(photo credit: AP Photo/Tom Mihalek)