HabsCast Hockey Blog

Uploaded on October 20, 2006 (flickr.com)
by Big Swede Guy

After signing a 1 year contract worth 2.95 million dollars it is clear that Michael Ryder doesn’t want to be affiliated with the Montreal Canadiens. It comes with no surprise that there is an apparent communication gap between Gainey and Ryder. After three years and no multi-year deal, Ryder, who becomes a UFA after this upcoming season. Ryder has posted solid numbers in the goals column, however, he accumulated for a total of minus 25 last season and a minus 30 over the last two. It appears that the new NHL isn’t so kind to Ryder’s so called “defensive” game.

All in all, this leads to two possible outcomes. One, that he will become a UFA next year and continue his career elsewhere, or two, the Montreal Canadiens will attempt to trade him before next years deadline. Either way, I don’t see Ryder bearing the CH come the 2008-2009 season. There are names swirling around that include the likes of Patrick Marleau, Vincent Lecavalier, and Marian Hossa, all of which are elite forwards in the NHL. It’s obviously going to take more to get these players but if Gainey has a chance to get them then by all means package Ryder and do it!!

My two cents: Ryder has some sort of chip on his shoulder and always seems to play well at the beginning and end of each season. The guy plays on his own terms and can’t perform throughout the 82 game stretch. I also feel that Ryder is going to have a career year in the upcoming season. Like many players (cough Souray cough) Ryder is going to attempt to score as many goals as possible to boost his market value before going into next summers unrestricted free agency frenzy.

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