Ryder seeks cure for ailing start

posted by Dave Stubbs at 10h28 EST on Nov 5

Canadiens' mostly first-line forward Michael Ryder figures hard work and more shots on goal will turn the tide and get him back on the scoresheet, where he had 30 goals and 28 assists last season.

Ryder was benched for most of the last Tuesday's third period against Atlanta, played well Thursday against Philadelphia, then was almost invisible Saturday against Toronto. He's trying the patience of head coach Guy Carbonneau, who nevertheless wants and needs production from the native of Bonavista, Nfld.

Dave Stubbs reports in today's Gazette column.