Dave, Thanks for clarifying. I am glad we see the same thing. I know you are a fan of his and I loved the interview you did with him this year and shared with us on the site. I thought it was excellent on both your parts. Saku takes so much undeserved heat from some of the press in Montreal, you are certainly not included in that group, that I worry about propagating negative opinions. If he tops his career best this year, the last thing he needs to be accused of, is playing for a contract. But, you know, if he does put up a great statistical year it will likely be inevitable and that's sad. On the matter of Gainey's comments: Mike Boone posted audio of that scrum on here and I heard something in there that gave Gainey's esteem of the captain away. If I remember right: he made his comments about Kovalev first and made it clear that if Kovy performed like last year he would be more than happy to resign him, leaving the flip side plain to the attentive ear; if he plays like two years ago... see ya later. When discussing Saku he began by saying that with a player that has been with the organization a long time and has proven his value and dedication there is "another element" added to the considerations. He then made it clear that Koivu's play on the ice this year would dictate his own approach. The thing is, of course play this year would dictate his approach greatly, only foolish GM's operate in a fashion other than that, especially with a 34 year old. I think Gainey had to add that point because of what he had already said about Kovy. He knew a controversy turned on the omission of that point. By Gainey standards that small reference to 'another element' speaks volumes. I believe his point is that barring a disaster of a season Saku will be resigned, Saku willing of course, however, the contract will reflect his play this year, as it should. Whereas with Kovalev the gauntlet has been thrown down and he is challenging him to maintain his performance or else further investment in his career will hold little appeal. In other words, Gainey isn't in the market for Kovy's b or c game yet would likely take Koivu's at the appropriate rate. I know it may seem that I am reading a lot into this but Bob is a very deliberate speaker and words, and their meanings, are hardly ever wasted by him. When there is a variation in comment regarding players the variation is usually there to indicate a real difference.

jimbo He could always be the trailer on the play.

the only player I suggested getting rid of, is Lats because he's lousy. the others will be UFA and not returning, plus they'll be some trades. don't put words into my mouth!

I probably know more about hockey in my little pinkie than your entire body!I think 35 years of watching the habs gives me some insight as to this team! And you think we're not trading Halak? trying reading some NHL columnists opinions, you'll learn I'm right! And you think Bouillon is coming back at the expense of weber or Valentenko? The only reason Weber and Pacioretty are not here now, is because THIS YEAR there is no room. But some players will be UFA at the end of this year, and won't be returning, ie. Bouillon, Dandy, Breezer, Begin, etc. and there will extra $$$ as a result to resign Koivu and Kovalev. Want more facts? I'll be happy to elaborate.