The party's over

posted by Mike Boone at 9h45 EST on May 3

Take the flags off the cars.

Wash the red, white and blue out of your hair.

No more Olés.

No more hockey in Montreal, until the Canadiens' centennial season begins in the autumn.

"Daddy, you're all done with the season," said one of Bryan Smolinski's kids, walking into the Canadiens' somber room on either side of their Dad.

"All done," said Smolinski. "You guys want a drink? Let's get you a drink."

Let's all have a drink. It was helluva ride, from read-leaved October to the darling buds of May.

Canadiens fans saw more hockey than we thought we would when the season began. So let's not mope unduly about aa fairly igominious exit by the hometown heroes.

"Obviously, I'm disappointed," said captain Saku Koivu, who described the five-game loss to Philadelphia as "frustrating."

"I thought we outplayed them, definitely in the first four games," Koivu added. "To come up with one win, you hav to give a lot of credit to their team. They did a lot of things right and found ways to win games."

This they did. The Flyers came back from a 3-1 deficit wih three unanswered second-period goals, then took conntrol of the game after Andrei Kostitsyn briefly brought the crowd to life by tying it early in the third period.

looking at the season in perspective, Koivu said "you have a lot of ups and a lot of downs, but you always remember the last night."

Koivu said the season had produced "a lot of great things, a lot of positive meoments" to be savored once the pain of tonight's loss diminished.

That will take time.

"For the next little while it's going to be tough," said Josh Gorges. "These things happen. Only one team can win every year, and this year it's not us. We have to learn from our mistakes.

"We got a young group of guys. We'll soak up a lot of what we went through together in these playoff series. In a month or so when we're at home we'll think about this series and what we could have done diffrently and what we can do differently next year."

Christopher Higgins, who was devastated after the final-game loss knocked Canadiens out of playoff contention last April, said tonight's loss felt worse.

"We got a taste of what it was like after winning one series," Higgins said. "After you win one it's kind of addictive. You want to go on and on and see how far you can take this thing."

Gorges said Carbonneau told the team he was proud of them, that no one had given the Canadiens a chance this season but they'd stuck together from Day One and played hard for each other.

"I think we grew as a team," Gorges said. "It's a tough time because not everybody will be back next year. You never know. Hopefully everyone is back because we have a great team, a good group of young guys. We'll learn from this."

"We proved a lot of people wrong," Koivu said. "We were really consistent as a team and that's something to be proud of.

"I strongly believe especially in the NHL you don't become a winner overnight," Koivu added. "It takes a lot of work, huge steps. It's not going to be any easier next year. But we can keep improving as a team and the future will be good for us.

"That's the mentality I hope everyone takes home for the summer and gets ready for the next training camp."

3P 00:40:

Well-deserved ovation.

3P 00:50:

It's been a great season.

3P 2:20:

Flyers settiing up an impenetrable line in the neutral zone.

3P 3:04:

It started with Bouillon clearing right to Carter and ennded with Upshall redirecting a Carter shot.

Geez the D has been weak tonight.

3P 4:00:

Markov great this period.

3P Break:

Latendresse rings one off the post. Man, that was the game there!

3P Break:

Smoke line hustles up a PP. This could be the game right here.

3P 8:08:

Sergei giveway and Price stops Briere in alone

3P 9:17:

Little of Breeze this period.

3P Break:

Bégin hustles and draws a high stick. No call

3P 12:00:

I can't blog fast ennough to kkeep up. NNo whsitles.

3P 13:30:

Kovalev and those long shhifts ...

3P 15:30:

The place is going nuts

3P 17:00:

Plekanec playing like a man possessed.

3P 17:47:

ANDREI K!!

Goal of the season.

4-4

3P 19:20:

At least it's not 2-0.

3P 19:59:

Umberger: two goals and an assist. Unreal.

3P 20:00:

20 minutes along, question-filled summer.

Between periods:

Roman Hamrlik minus-3, Josh Gorges minus-2, the Smoke line on for two goals. A total collapse. Down 3-1 after that Higgins goal, how easy would it have been for Philly to say "we'll get them tomorrow." Then that odd Richards goal. And Umberger allowed to roam free (why not? He can't score) Price awful on Hartnell's long shot.

2P 00:00:

Well, we'll find out what the boys are made of in the third, eh?

2P 1:14:

This is just pathetic. Gut check time, and Canadiens have collapsed.

2P 3:00:

What an epic collapse. And Price was awful on that goal.

2P 3:47:

Canadiens are shellshocked. They'll be lucky to get out of the period 3-3 and regroup.

2P 4:00:

The place is in shock.

2P 4:16:

No.

This isn't happening.

Umberger?

It's a bad dream/

2P 4:35:

Plekanec wheels around Hatcher to create a chance for Markov

2P Break:

Andrei K on the doorstep. He's snakebit. Man, that goal ...

2P 5:58:

Goal. No video evidence to overturn it.

2P 5:58:

Whatever happens, another great shift by Umberger. He's out of control in this series.

2P 5:58:

Did Richards re-direct it with his glove?

2P 6:44:

Komisarek a backhanded shot on goal from centre ice.

2P Break:

Omen? Umberger fell on his ass on the PP.

2P 7:30:

Smoke line all over them

2P 9:00:

Wow! Bégin!

Wow! Price!

2P 10:24:

Komisarek high-sticked by Briere and retaliates with an elbow. Now a 5-on-3 Price called ... very cheap

2P 11:45:

CHRISTOPHER HIGGINS!

It's about time Biron looked crap on a goal.

3-1

2P 11:55:

Price looking very confident. 12 saves.

2P Break:

Higgins with Max and Latendresse. Flyers come awfully cllose off a goalmouth scramble.

2P:

Markov just misses on the PP. So do Andrei K and PPleks. Good PP

2P 16:08:

Another PP. Thoresen fell asleep, didn't know where puck was against Gorges

2P 17:00:

Pleks line out WAY too long.

2P 19:20:

Hatcher: So slow

2P 20:00:

Three words: NO DUMB PENALTIES. That Philly power play came damn close. Great puck control.

Cherry:

Has trumped Carbo's tie. Too funny.

Between periods:

Sergei K. is looking great, dishing out passes on the Koivu line ... Gorges and Bouillon have become the steadiest defence pairing ... Andrei Markov is not Andrei Markov. He's a step slow and hesitant, every unMarkovian traits ... Carbo is working all kinds of changes to get his scorers on against Jones and Hatcher and Smith ... Hamrlik 7:13, Gorges 7:02 topped the D

1P 00:55:

My man JG: great first passes.

1P 1:56:

Three quick shots on Biron. 11 in the period.

1P :

Richards wins the PP draw. Close calls but PK prevails

1P 4:56:

You knew it would happen. Kovalev is frustrated by defence against him and takes a lazy hooking penalty.

1P 6:20:

What a shift for Sergei!

1P Break:

Five shots, two goals on Biron. Unreal!

1P 8:32:

MAX! And he beat Timonen.

2-1

1P 9:40:

Who else? The birthday boy. And Breeze the goat.

1-1

1P 11:53:

First wave useless. Then a late goalmouth scramble gets exciting.

1P Break:

Another PP. 2-0 would very, very, very good.

1P 14:04:

Big hits on Carter, Upshall. Plekanec gets the goal.

1P 14:37:

That got a rise. Bégin flattened Hartnell.

1P 15:00:

What? A lead?

1P 15:30:

Koivu on first wave. Streit makes giveaway but saves a goal. PP is too nervous. Then finally

BREEZE!

1-0

1P 17:17:

Max liine draws a penalty.

1P 17:38:

Price's new glove worked on Richards

1P 18:11:

Kovy again. Faceoff in Flyers' end. Whistle and out come Coburn and Timonen

1P 19:20:

Kovalev on against Jones and Hatcher. Then Stevens changes up right away to Coburn and Timonen.

1P 19:38:

Koivu, Higgins and Sergei

1P 19:59:

The beauty of the tie is it's just as ugly no matter what colour suit Carbo is wearing.

Anthems:

Mr. Clutch: Charles Prévost-Linton. And the yahoos drown out Thhe Star-Spangled Bannner

1P 20:00:

Balls out for 60 minutes. Anything less and it's soccer season in Montreal.

Starters:

Reunited Smoke line, Gorges and Bouillon against Richards, Lupul, Umberger, Timonen and Hatcher. I guess Stevens will try to match Coburn and Kovalev

I just hope these guys realize ...:

... if they blow it tonight I have to go back to my day job.

Crowd pumped:

Towels waving, "Go Habs go!" already. Gonna be LOUD tonight.

Inspirational music:

Should Lose Yourself be played during warm-ups for this game?

His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy
There's vomit on his sweater already, mom's spaghetti
He's nervous, but on the surface he looks calm and ready
To drop bombs, but he keeps on forgettin
What he wrote down, the whole crowd goes so loud
He opens his mouth, but the words won't come out
He's choking, how everybody's joking now
The clock's run out, time's up over, bloah!
Snap back to reality, Oh there goes gravity
Oh, there goes Rabbit, he choked
He's so mad, but he won't give up that
Easy, no
He won't have it , he knows his whole back's to these ropes
It don't matter, he's dope
He knows that, but he's broke
He's so stagnant that he knows
When he goes back to his mobile home, that's when it's
Back to the lab again yo
This this whole rhapsody
He better go capture this moment and hope it don't pass him

Happy birthday:

R.J.F. Umberger, 26 today

Referees:

Don Koharski, Kelly Sutherland

Zeke says ...:

My friend and colleague Herb Zurkowsky, whom I always tease but totally respect, says this one is definitely going back to Philly and could be coming back here on Tuesday.

Happy advertisers:

RDS sold playoff commercials with a guaranteed audience of 1.2 million viewers. Averages have approached 2 million, with peak viewing closing in on 3 million. That's a lot of eyeballs for those spots.

Carey Price's new gear:

For all his joking yesterday, do you suppose the new trapper annd blocker have extra padding to protect some kind of hand injury?

First blood:

Can Canadiens go through an entire playoff series without scoring the game's first goal? It doesn't make sense.

History:

François Ganon writes that while the Canadiens have surmounted 3-1 deficits only once (2004 - Year of José) in 25 tries, the Flyers have blown two of their 18 3-1 series leads: in 1988 against Washington and in 2000 against New Jersey, when Scott Stevens KOed Eric Lindros.

Last Tangle at the Bell Centre:

In this fantasy, Chantal Machabée plays the Maria Schneider role and ... oh, I'm going to burn in hell for eternity or until the Leafs win the Cup, whichever comes first.

I'm late on this:

Annakin Slayd. Excellent.

Paul Holmgren:

Jean-Franccois Bégin, who's become my favourite La Presse columnist, even though he backs Arsenal, has a terrific piece on the Philadelphia general manager. Former goon he may be, but Holmgren has rebuilt the Flyers in a very short period of time and, in the process, corrected the errors of his predecessor, Goonus Maxiumus, aka Bobby Clarke.

Calling all Commentators:

Hey, let's top 1,000 again tonight. It's a HUGE game, and that kind of response dramatically enhances my chances of beig spared next tme a round of staff adjustments sees everyone who can remember Terry Harper taken out to the back 40 to be Old Yellered.

A good reason not to riot:

Fabian Brunnstrom, considered the best player outside the NHL, will be at the game tonight. The Swedish star is touring the cities that covet his services, and Montreal is in the hunt with Detroit (aka Stockholm West) and Dallas.

Tags:

Boone
Flyers

Comments

Submitted by kostitsyn_2 on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 08:28.

I can't believe it, another season of hockey gone again. Even if the habs didn't make it, I still love them. I think Price did really well. I mean for a 20 year old kid, common you gotta give the guy some props. I'm so proud of the habs, they gave it their 110% and that's what they should always do no matter what. Loving the habs(:

Submitted by JB_15 on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 07:55.

This is sad. We're sitting in our montreal hotel after last night's loss wondering what went wrong. We will miss the habs dearly for a few months. BUT. Even though it feels like I've been dumped by the girl of my dreams, we are getting back together. Come fall, I have a feeling she is going to want me back. And we will stay together probably for at least 82 games. The fact that it hurts this much to lose means we have something incredible going with this group of guys - Mediocrity would not feel like this. Ask a leaf fan how they felt when their team was eliminated from the palyoffs with 12 or so games remaining in the regular season. They were probably pissed off, but they weren't heartbroken. Look, regardless of what round we went out in, unless we won the cup, this was bound to happen. And we weren't going to win the cup. But it's not the cup I really cared about and I dont think many of you care that much about it either - its the comraderie, the excitement, the wearing the jersey in the street and getting a car horn honk, the waving the white towels with 21 272 others, and the fist pumping, smiling, and 5-1 comebacks. It's all of that that we will really remember from this year, and we have to just keep in mind it is likely it will be even better come fall of -08. Everyone has something incredible to look forward to. Whereas last summer, it was completely up in the air as to what this team would do. I had a great time, I am sad as hell, but I am excited to finally be able to say we have a contender. GO HABS GO. This team will be scary good.

Submitted by doug on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 11:07.

poetic and beautiful. it was tough - i just watched it on dvr so the pain is really fresh for me - but we're young and will be better. they did us proud.

Submitted by howtathor on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 08:28.

It is sad to hang up the jersey for the last time. In four months it will all be forgotten. The joie-de-vivre of the 100th season will be something to look forward to. It's been said before that you have to lose in order to learn how to win. You have to suffer the agony of defeat in order to avoid it at all costs. This is a young team aside from the veterans and it's been an incredible learning curve this year. Just to finish first overall was an achievement in itself. We had our moments in the playoffs (game 1 and 7 against Boston) and last night when we went up 3-1, I really thought we had it in the bag. There are no bags in the playoffs and the team that wants it more usually takes it as was the case last night. I hope we learn from this experience and come back stronger in our 100th year. Can't wait!

Submitted by Chuck on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 02:06.

And you know, it's not like Carey played like crap, people. In fact, I'm damn proud of his play. Tonight's game was an example of how life went for him in this playoff season: The first Philly goal: a dive that Umberger would have connected with, what... once every hundred times? How bout a goal deflected off of glove? An opportune deflection for the 5th Flyer goal... Damn, it just wasn't meant to be this year. But I'm no less proud of the guys, that's for sure. Go Habs Go!!! . . . ______________________________________ "All bow down before the Komisaurus Rex!"

Submitted by usversusthem on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 05:37.

Chuck, let's be fair. Carey hasn't played well since the beginning of the third period of Game Five against Boston, with the notable exception of Game Seven. I remember thinking back then that it looked like his fumbled giveaway that lead to the Metropolit goal seemed like it really turned the tide and he didn't seem the same afterwards. Well, I ran the numbers... check it out. Price pre-giveaway: Stopped 133 of 139 shots Allowed 6 goals in 295 minutes .957 SV% 1.22 GAA 3-0-1 record, 1 shutout Price post-giveaway: Stopped 151 of 175 shots Allowed 24 goals in 353 minutes .863 SV% 4.08 GAA 2-5-0 record, 1 shutout I don't know what you call that second set of stats, but it's not good by any stretch of the imagination... and it's taking into account a shutout, to boot! I'm not suggesting I've lost all faith in him or whatever... but his numbers are flat-out horrible since the incident. I only hope he'll be back to his old self come next season...

Submitted by bsorek on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 08:04.

Good stats...I also felt that that was Price's turnaround for the worst. Dunno what happened at that point, for a guy that is suppose to be headstrong it seems strange that he would get rattled by that goal. Game 5 definitely highlighted a weakness on Price's glove side. Although games 6 & 7 didn't show anything definitive. To me it just seems that he plays tight with his glove hand when he tenses up.He doesn't stretch it out enough and therefore just barely misses it or fumbles the puck. It seems to be that it was a case of pressure/tiredness, and it's something he can get over as he gains experience. The thing that bothered me most is that Montreal seemed too predictable. Their power play and break outs were well read by the opposing coaches and they were easily shut down. They need to improvise more, try to read the flow of the game, maybe that is also a case of inexperience.

Submitted by the_larry on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 01:28.

What are we left to do 'til September on here? Will there be daily postings and articles on here as usual? I've depended so much on this site over the winter, and its become part of my routine, I dont know what to do without it.

Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 06:17.

The site is quiet active actually with discussions on the entry draft , free agency , trades and hockey talk and fewer agitators with their agenda.

Submitted by Richard on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 01:04.

By the way, Mike: Thanks. It's been a pleasure reading your blogs and sharing your cardiac moments all season. ______________ Hab a nice summer.

Submitted by shakey on Mon, 05/05/2008 - 00:21.

have to agree - a friend told me about this site during the first series, and since then, i've been addicted. great commentary and conversations. we'll be better next year for the experience and the moves gainey will make. this is what teams that win need to go through.

Submitted by gfunkdoc on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 01:02.

"All done," said Smolinski. "You guys want a drink? Let's get you a drink." Cheers! It's true, before the season began we'd all have been glad with one playoff round win. Now, we're all a little disappointed, but I still think there's a little sweetness mixed in with this bitter taste of defeat. We all saw some things we never expected would happen. Players like Andrie Kostitsyn, Tomas Plekanec and Mike Komisarek became what we knew they could be while the Gorgeses (what is the plural of Gorges?), Sergeis and Prices pleasantly surprised the hell out of us! So, while we toast the overachievement that led us this far, let's smile and drink one for the ride this group is gonna lead us on for the next few years!

Submitted by gfunkdoc on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 01:02.

Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 23:16.

I suppose Carbo will be on the golf links tomorrow but i hope he told the rest of his foursome , Lats ,Breezer and Streit to bring their rain gear cuz the weather looks iffy, lol.

Submitted by D Alcorn on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 23:40.

Did someone say golf ? ... I said : par-don ? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1pAgAWFJmU&feature=related Always Habs - Dave Mex

Submitted by Timo (not verified) on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 23:00.

Just posting to get rise out of Moye.

Submitted by The Teacher on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 23:04.

LOL Timo. "One face-off, one battle, one shift, one period, one game, one series at a time." "Are the Habs ready to pay the Price?"

Submitted by sidhu on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:40.

Great season for our boys - we were not expected to make the playoffs, but we finished first in our conference, had the most goals in the league, had the number one PP, and played consistently throughout the season (no Christmas slump). The Habs should be proud of their performance overall and more importantly their character. The Comeback against the Rangers, perhaps one of the best Canadiens victory in years, is illustrative of that character. We have a lot of young talent to build on. We will be losing some veterans (Brisebois, Smoke, Ryder), but we can easily replace them via free agency. Chipchura will be with the club, and maybe Stewart as well. Contrary to what some may say, I think Montreal is an attractive destination for free agents. Plus, we will have (I believe) a good $8-10m to spend (assuming that the cap will rise). I do think BG will be make some trades because of the logjam at defense so unfortunately we may see one or more players on the move. There will be plenty of speculation regarding what BG should do (including whether and if so at what cost Streit should be resigned). For now, I think it's best if we just celebrate a fantastic season. Many thanks to Mr Boone and the others at Habs I/O, and to all the commentators for making this season more enjoyable for me.

Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 23:09.

Sidu - Nice post but i fail to see a log jam on "D" as i don't see Streit (if he's signed) anything but a reserve "D" and the young one's are at least a year away and i hope we pick up a crafty veteran on the free agent market. We'll have two months to debate free agency.

Submitted by Moey on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:39.

One last note, I think it's a hoot that the Pens threw their last regular season game to avoid the flyers...and now ....should make for some fun hockey...what goes around comes around.

Submitted by Vid on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:40.

That regular season consistency seemed to fizzle in the playoffs but I see that as more a product of the increased pressure and youth. Our defensive play wasn't all that consistent during the playoffs. We have a good core of players here. Price was up and down this series but with more experience he'll become consistent and perhaps consistently brilliant. We are solid in nets. I don't think many changes need to be made to this team. Right now we have a lot of depth but I find this depth consists mostly of 4th line forwards and 6th defencemen. We definitely need one or ideally two big forwards who can play 2nd/3rd line roles (with 1st line potential) and a solid 4th D to accompany Hamrlik. Latendresse and O'Byrne have the potential to fulfill these roles but a trade or free agent signing might be required until these guys develop. One of these forwards should be a right handed shot. Perhaps more importantly, I think our team style/strategy/philosophy will need to be tweaked a bit here and there.

Submitted by Mike Boone on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 00:00.

Very astute analysis.

Submitted by Larry on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 23:56.

Price was up and down in this series? He was Horrible. There was no up. I will say it again, that was the worst playoff performance by an NHL goaltender I have ever seen. His weaknesses were glaringly obvious and don't think the rest of the league wasn't watching. They will kill him next year. They will not fear Carey Price believe you me. He will never be able to recover from this.

Submitted by Mike Boone on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 00:03.

Congratulations! We have a little reward here at Habs Inside/Out for the most hysterical, totally-wrong, out-to-lunch assessment of a member of the Canadiens. And you may already be a wiener!

Submitted by wild flower on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 01:59.

In support of Larry, I would say that I think his analysis has at least some chance of becoming a reality instead of just being hysterical. I think anyone who questioned BG's deadline wisdom, was basically vindicated. Looking through clear glass towards the anniversary season, I see Koivu and Kovalev one year older, questionable goaltending, a core of D that in its best iteration (pts and pylon again tonight) includes Breezer not O’byrne, and some nice but small offensive talent. Can they repeat what they did this year let alone challenge for the cup? Not likely.

Submitted by Dru on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 10:30.

Totally right. Huet would have taken us all the way :>

Submitted by wild flower on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 19:53.

good point - I can always count on you to explain why I needn't worry about the goaltending. What about the small forwards. If you needed one, right now who would you take: Plecanek, Koivu or Ribeiro?

Submitted by Larry on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 00:56.

Well I know what I just saw. And that was a talented team that badly outplayed their opponent night after night and were let down again and again with awful goals against. Are you telling me you thought he was good? Every time the Habs had momentum and looked ready to pull it out he let in a flubber. It was painful to watch.

Submitted by Komi For Captain on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 05:10.

Hey Larry... Ever heard of Marc-Andre Fleury? He had shaken and bad goaltender written all over him not just in last year's playoffs but a good part of this season before he was injured. Now watch as he makes incredible saves. It's about confidence, Carey will be great. Look at Jose's season. Don't believe? Good, go to Toronto, we don't need you here. (Or maybe you prefer Ray Emery)

Submitted by Chuck on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 01:30.

Dude, were you watching the series through stained glass? . . . ______________________________________ "All bow down before the Komisaurus Rex!"

Submitted by tony d on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:33.

I'm gonna miss posting on here and reading all the + and - comments from all the fans....it's been an emotional time for all of us and I feel I've gotten to know many of you.....my wife has even become a little jealous..with her occasional "Are you still talking on that Habs site?" I've enjoyed the laughs from Mike and the gang and the wonderful insights and tidbits of info... it's gonna be a long summer but I will be checking in on a regular basis. have a good one everybody....and stay healthy

Submitted by Mike Boone on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 00:05.

Keep checking in. There's no such thing as an off-season in Montreal. We'll have stuff on the draft, free agents. And I'll set up a post for every night of the playoffs so you can come on and vent. The beat goes on, brothers and sisters.

Submitted by Timo (not verified) on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:42.

Hey Tony, now you get your marriage back. So do I. Wife's been nagging me about spending too much time here rather than say taking the garbage out. Have a great summer, pal.

Submitted by Moey on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:51.

LOL, if she has any sense, she'll put you in the next glad bag. It's the end of the season, just go away.

Submitted by doug on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 11:11.

My my you are miserable and rude.

Submitted by Corporate on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:32.

As many posters have done already.... Thank you to the Montreal Canadiens for a great year and an exciting one. No one expected you to be where you were... Hats off... I also hope that the majority of the team stays the same and resigns. We have an awesome team with great Chemistry.... No money can buy that. I would also like to thank all the posters here and Mike Boone and the rest of the team. It has been very enjoyable reading the various posts and the respect in which people treat each other. It is great and hope you all come back for Stanley Cup year 2009.... Players win games, teams win championships. - Bill Taylor

Submitted by Dan23 on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:25.

A great season by the Habs - they went farther than I expected and they were entertaining the whole way (well, pretty much the whole way - that game against Columbus was awful :) Luckily, I know I'll still be able to get my Habs fix on HI/O - thanks to Messrs. Boone, Stubbs, Mio, and everyone who makes this place THE destination for Habstalk - especially the posters. Looking forward to Mr. Gainey's season-ending press conference, the draft, and the free agent signings. All that, and the 100th anniversary season starts in five months! GO HABS GO!

Submitted by Ian G Cobb on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:22.

Mike Boone, Dave Stubbs, Kevin Mio, Pat Hickey and Chris Aung-Thwin, and all from the Mtl. Gazette. I would like very much to thank you for your professionalism in reporting and entertainment. You have made this site into a great community of fans from all over the world. And I very much would like to attend another wonderful Summit and a chance to meet with this community in Montreal again. If there is any way I could help with putting another summit on let me know.

Submitted by Chuck on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 01:32.

Let's make it happen, Ian! . . . ______________________________________ "All bow down before the Komisaurus Rex!"

Submitted by NLhabsfan on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:24.

I plan on it.

Submitted by Gr8stFranchizEvr on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:18.

anybody putting their money on a particular team for the cup? I was thinking Sharks before they became Starstruck. Pittsburgh looks like a powerhouse, but with inexperienced goaltending that could sink them against another offensive juggernaut. The Wings are probably a safe bet, but Dallas could have a few more surprises up their sleeves.

Submitted by D Alcorn on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:42.

My call would be for whoever prevails from the West. In the East, the Pens have skill, but the ' resting ' of Crosby for that final regular season game vs Philly left a bad taste in my mouth. Frankly, he strikes me as a prima-donna who misses the standard set by past marquee players by a wide margin. Always Habs - Dave Mex

Submitted by Komi For Captain on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 05:12.

Yeah, my money is on Dallas. Especially with Pittsburgh's theatrics in the playoffs... yuck. Dallas is looking really good especially since the trade deadline.

Submitted by Keith on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:16.

Thanks Dave Stubbs, Mike Boone, Kevin Mio, Pat Hickey and everybody else at HIO and all the posters for a great regular season and playoffs. Wow! You guys make it a joy to come on this site everyday. God bless you all. What a great ride it has been this year. I had them pegged in eighth place at best and they totally blew away my expectations. First in the Eastern Conference. Who expected that? After the bitter taste of this loss to the Filthydelphia Cryers sinks in we can all look back on a very successful regular season, the playoffs were a let down but a young team like the Habs will learn from this. Five months to Habs hockey will seem like an eternity. I'll miss all the great stories and insight that everbody brings to this blog. Don't want it to stop really. When the Summit comes up next season (hope there is one), I will be there. Thanks eveybody! GO HABS GO!!!! THE GREATEST SPORTS FRANCHISE ON EARTH!!!

Submitted by gauvinator on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:13.

I thought I'd feel more pissed off...I've been angrier for regular season losses. I guess I just knew it wasn't to be...we had to overtime our only win, and got beat out (mostly) by Biron and his posts. What are ya gonna do? As the great Brian NcNamee says, "It is what it is" Fine. Guess we'll just wait until we're celebrating the 100yrs, with the All Star game and the draft and MORE GAMES ON THE CBC (if we must) and a talented, young team and coach, now with some playoff experience. It was fun this year, though!

Submitted by RH on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:20.

Hey Chris, I'll most likely be keeping my Habs flag on my car until the season is over. I drive a silver Saturn and I've got an orange Ford Ranger construction vehicle around the GM plant in Oshawa. If you're ever in the area, just give the "Dukes of Hazzard" honk or, if you're not able too, three honks will suffice.

Submitted by gauvinator on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 23:34.

Saw someone yesterday near the OC with a Habs flag...pretty sure it was a blue Ford, tho' (of course I honked and waved!). Will keep my eyes open, and I'll see what I can managed with my horn.

Submitted by Habs-Kat on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:13.

Hockey never ends in Montreal! Our flag stays up all year long. Once the playoffs are over, the off-season fun begins. I love waking up in the morning and then hearing about shocking trades/signings and I always watch the Entry Draft. Hopefully the Habs are on the good end of those this year. When the off-season festivities are over, I'll be itching for the start of the centennial season. Good job boys. I can't wait until next year. Recommendation to the club: First game at the Bell next season, play "Stronger" by Kanye West. "... Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger"

Submitted by howtathor on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:10.

Did anyone who was at the game notice that the lottery number was 666? How can you win with that kind of luck in the building? Heck, even Beliveau was absent! The "beasts" from the east have taken over! Looks to be an all Pennsylvania final. Thanks to Mike Boone for his nightly enlightenment and to all the posters who make this such a great place to read! In the immortal words of the bard himself: Fare thee well King Harry for never shall you hear herold again...

Submitted by jew4jah on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:08.

Oh, my habs nation mishpocha, i'll miss you over the next few months.

Submitted by Gr8stFranchizEvr on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:11.

back at ya, but we're the Habs Universe. let's not sound too 'leafy', eh!

Submitted by jew4jah on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:19.

i meant it in french, nation not nation.

Submitted by The Teacher on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:24.

LOL FUNNY "One face-off, one battle, one shift, one period, one game, one series at a time." "Are the Habs ready to pay the Price?"

Submitted by HabsFreak (not verified) on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:05.

I'm more disappointed about HOW it ended. These guys played the playoffs like a deer staring into a light. I know this team is young but the vets did not step up. To let the B's take us to 7 and then to lose in 5 to a less talented team is a really poor showing. Thuis team had good chemistry but obviously lacked character. That being said, I think it was a great year and the future is bright. I'm sure Gainey has taken notes and will continue hos plan building a championsip franchise. He's only a few players away. Congrats on a GREAT YEAR!!! It was fun.

Submitted by RetroMikey on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:01.

By the way, we were the last Canadian team to win the Cup in 1993 and will be the first Canadian team to sip the Cup before Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver does. More free agents will wanting to play here, and the future looks very bright for us. GO HABS GO I say! "We will win the Cup only with Carey Price in the nets"

Submitted by likehoy on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:06.

we have a lot of youth mind you...so we have to be delicate in our UFA selections.

Submitted by Gr8stFranchizEvr on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:12.

Gainey's gonna have to take his 'wisdom' pills before UFA negotiations.

Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:20.

Unfortunately the UFA pool is not strong at all but enough to strengthen our team without a big splash.

Submitted by Gary320 on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:00.

So how about a nice Go Habs Go Chant starting here on the boards? GO HABS GO..

Submitted by Fant-HAB-ulous on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:07.

Go Habs Go!!!

Submitted by likehoy on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:00.

you know what i realized.... i had 6 habs in our H/O pool and zero philadelphia (did anyone pick hamburger or francian??)

Submitted by Gr8stFranchizEvr on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:59.

Kovalev got news that the Russian hockey team doesn't want him for the second year in a row. Reason: too slow

Submitted by nick on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:55.

RDS was just showing the penalty Price got for the hold he got earlier and comparing it to last game when Biron held on to Lapierre's and the lack of call there. Ref's eh!? ... can't live with 'em ... can't kill 'em... or something like that.

Submitted by dicktracy on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:10.

can't live with em...pass the beer nuts,

Submitted by thirdstone on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:55.

It's been a great f.in year. Many thanks to mister Boone, who has been there to bring us together under the shade of his blog's wisdom. See you all during the summer's landmark dates, and at the beginning of the most promising season I've had the chance to look forward to.

Submitted by Moey on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:55.

Okay, we're done and dusted. Till next year, and God forgive me but I hope Timo disappears, because I can't stick him, he needs measured for a straight jacket. GOLF HABS GOLF...get some rest, have fun and come back next season to give us another great ride. May the force be with you.

Submitted by RH on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:59.

Oh, c'mon Moey! Everybody's got their own "raison d'etre" in life!

Submitted by Moey on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:09.

Understood, but so is thinning of the herd. It's necesary.

Submitted by RH on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:14.

Moey, That IS the FUNNIEST post I've ever read from you!!! :))

Submitted by The Teacher on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:24.

LMAO I do agree "One face-off, one battle, one shift, one period, one game, one series at a time." "Are the Habs ready to pay the Price?"

Submitted by Ian Cobb on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:54.

Who said we would not make the play offs. It has been one of the most enjoyable seasons in decades and we have just begun building the next NHL dynasty. And all of you on this site has made this new experience of comunicating just the most fantastic year of my life. I thank you all for your patience and encouragement. We are all a little sad this evening, but we know what it takes to go all the way and we are just not ready yet. But I want to tell you that we are closer to the top than most people give us credit and it won't be much longer.

Submitted by Gr8stFranchizEvr on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:06.

Good attitude ian. But, i think the days of the NHL dynasty teams has become like the dinosaur. perhaps the closest thing to it is the very intimidating presence of the Red Wings every year. besides Detriot, i can't think of another - maybe the Devils in the 90's up until a couple of years ago. has any team won more than 2 consecutive cups in the last 20 years? despite that fact, i think the idea of having a team compete and make the playoffs and give the fans something to cheer for is worth noting. we have lots to look forward to.

Submitted by Ian G Cobb on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:26.

See ya at the next summit Gr8stFE

Submitted by D Alcorn on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:54.

Very good season, promising future, and Bob will now have proper time and opportunity to assess and make adjustments. They are the classiest organisation in the league and the Centennial Season is just ahead. Bravo ! Always Habs - Dave Mex

Submitted by likehoy on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:49.

i know it's not the time but sean avery is UFA...PURSUE HIM GAINEY!! forget smokes...avery!!!!

Submitted by P St. Pierre on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:57.

No way, not classy enough for this organization.

Submitted by t1tan5 on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:53.

that would be really cool. i mean i really hate the guy, but if he played for us, i would LOVE him!

Submitted by NLhabsfan on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:53.

No way.

Submitted by thirdstone on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:51.

No.

Submitted by The Teacher on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:50.

AGREED but he won't come here. "One face-off, one battle, one shift, one period, one game, one series at a time." "Are the Habs ready to pay the Price?"

Submitted by nick on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:52.

Sean Avery learning french... wahahahaha.

Submitted by likehoy on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:56.

he hates french players...dissing up denis gauthier for that hit on JR a few years back. he's candid and he's an arse...but he would do anything to win and you can't have enough players like that.

Submitted by dicktracy on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:48.

Well at least I can get back to work but I will always remember this season as the beginning-birth of the new Habs generation, what a great future. Thanks and have healthy happy summer to all. Oh ya whoever wins the playoff pool...sucks

Submitted by RetroMikey on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:46.

This was a great season being a Habs fan! Congratulations boys! Keep your heads up and never down! We had a magic ride and we will be back better than ever! I am proud being a Habs fan and look forward to many years of competitive hockey for years to come! HIO crew! Bow your heads for a job well done to cater to us fans and keep up the great work! To all the friends I met on this site from Ian, Robert L, Naila, Scotty, wd40, etc. looking forward to meeting you guys one day at a game in Montreal or at a Baby Habs game in Hamilton. Looking forward to the Centennial celebrations this fall! "We will win the Cup only with Carey Price in the nets"

Submitted by Ian Cobb on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:58.

You bet Mike, there are a few out there that I would like to share a pint or two with, stay in touch all.

Submitted by Gary320 on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:43.

In the beginning of the playoffs, it was said that this year.. it was meant to be. After a terrific season that had incredible moments like defeating Boston 8 times or coming back from a 5-0 deficit vs the Rangers or the great battles with the Leafs or how our goalie of the future became the goalie of the present.. The playoffs came about and our young team might not have been ready for this. They did not know how to react.. how they should play.. should we play like we do in the season or do we have to change our game? The veterans showed them the way, and they got more comfortable with the playoff style, some got lost in the fog and never came back again.. but in the end.. the boys might not have won the series, or the cup... but they won experience. They know what its like to be in Game 7s, they know what it's like to be behind.. they know what it's like to give it your all but still not get the result you want.. and because of that they will be better players and they will be ready for the seasons to come. Like was said on April 9th.. is said again tonight.. It was all meant to be... GO HABS GO.

Submitted by port elgin on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:43.

Good season but any way you slice it the playoffs were a huge letdown.The habs had a lot of potential but it all went down the flusher.

Submitted by Vid on Sun, 05/04/2008 - 00:40.

Finishing 1st in the conference was definitely an over-achievement. You could argue we had some help from the Pens and particularly Ottawa's latter half season spiral into crappiness. Honestly, I was expecting them to make the playoffs but more like 8th or 7th considering how close they were the season before. If that had happened and they lost in the 2nd round I wouldn't have been too upset and would've considered that overachieving. If in that hypothetical situation they had lost in the 1st round I would've considered that as meeting expectations. When you do finish 1st in the East that does inflate expectations. I was hoping and judging from their play definitely thinking they could make the conference finals but I think you could only have classified this playoffs as an under-achievement if they had lost to Boston which they didn't. Especially the manner in which they lost to Philly, while not the best way to lose was respectable. I felt the team had a much better and more consistent work ethic in the Philly series than the Boston series but got beat by lucky highly improbable goals and equally lucky but when not lucky superb goaltending on Biron's side. Maybe the Habs' strategy was flawed but the players, they put on honest effort out there and that's all I can expect.

Submitted by Larry on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 21:51.

I agree. ANd it went down the flusher with the goaltending. All the people saying Carey Price learned a lot, he will bounce back, you are deluding yourselves. This was not just a few bad games and goals. This was a complete meltdown. He showed that he is not very good, is very easily rattled, and he falls asleep out there. At this level you have to be in the game mentally, all the time. A lot of times that kid was miles away. He will not last in this league. He has some skills obvioulsy, but he is not there mentally and I suspect he never will be.

Submitted by Gooner on Sat, 05/03/2008 - 22:06.

It surely looked like that in the playoffs but hopefully you are wrong. I have my doubts but still keep the faith. Hopefully we are not looking for a goaltender next year !!

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About Mike Boone

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Mike Boone

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I grew up in Park Extension, within walking distance of Dickie Moore's Dairy Queen on Jean Talon. Moore had a place on L'Acadie Blvd., and we used to see him driving around in his convertible with a Samoyed and a very dishy wife. While "studying" at McGill University during the 1960s, I used to attend games at the old Montreal Forum. My fellow undergraduate reprobates and I would scramble up the stairs to get centre-ice spots in the top standing room section, where aged ushers didn't know or care what we were smoking. I stood out in the cold for six hours to get tickets to the 1975 New Year's Eve game between the Canadiens and Central Red Army. With the exception of the birth of my daughter, the 3-3 tie was the greatest event I've ever seen in my life. The Canada-U.S. Gold medal game comes close .... but I wasn't there. I've been a professional journalist since 1974, when I joined the Montreal Star sports department. I've covered the 1976 Olympic Games, the 1979 Expos, pop music and MSO tours of Europe and Asia (classical musicians are WAY more fun to drink with than athletes). I wrote a TV & Radio column for 20 years and, since 2000, have written a City column for The Gazette. The best part of being a Habs Inside/Out contributor is attending games at the Bell Centre. I think it's a great building: noisy, raucous and packed to the rafters with Montrealers and visitors who live for hockey. And I still get goosebumps every time Michel Lacroix booms out "Accueillons nos Canadiens ..." Having seen the Boston Red Sox win two World Series and the Pittsburgh Steelers add a couple Super Bowl titles, I suppose I can die happy ... but not before another Stanley Cup parade. And I'd really like my daughter to see a historic New Year's Eve game. I like all the players. Covering baseball gives me a profound appreciation of pro athletes who aren't jerks. My weltanschauung was summarized by the late great Bill Hicks when he said "all matter is merely energy condensed to a slow vibration, we are all one consciousness experiencing itself subjectively, there is no such thing as death, life is only a dream and we are the imagination of ourselves." Have a nice day.

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posted by Mike Boone at 9h45 EST on May 3

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