Player Review-Gionta,Gomez, Pouliot

Brian Gionta-"Who Cares About Size"
Another one of Bob Gainey's prized off season acquisitions, Brian Gionta has been told he's too small all his life. At 5'7, he certainly doesn't look down on many NHL players, but you'd be hard pressed to find a guy who uses his frame better. Gionta proved this season to Canadiens fans that he can put the puck in the and that he never quits working. He led the team with 28 goals this season, despite only playing 61 games thanks to a broken foot. He then chipped in with 9 goals in 19 playoff games. His name has been mentioned in the captain debate many times due to his work ethic and overall leadership. His chemistry with linemate Scott Gomez was evident from game 1 and it will be interesting to see what kind of numbers he can put up over an entire season.

Scott Gomez-"$7 Million Dollar Man"
I wonder how many times Gomez has been questioned about his salary since he signed his mega contract with the Rangers. Depsite the hefty cap hit, Gomez proved his worth this season with his 2 way game and feisty attitude. He scored just 12 goals but finished second on the team with 59 points, while adding another 14 points in the playoffs. There aren't many nights you can say Gomez doesn't work hard, but my only knock on him (outside of the contract) is his tendency to pass up shots and look to pass instead. The guy has a good shot, I just wish he'd use it more. Gomez is another Canadien who brings leadership and a winning attitude. One of the big reasons for the lower point total was the injury to Gionta, which saw Gomez's production almost dry up.

Benoit Pouliot-"Will The Real Pouliot Please Stand Up"
When Benoit Pouliot was acquired for the struggling G. Latendresse last season, no one really knew what the Habs would get. 39 regular season games and 18 playoff games later, most still don't know. Pouliot was a former 4th overall pick who just never got on track in Minnesota. He was put on a line with Gomez and Gionta with the Habs and it appeared the Canadiens had a true power forward. Pouliot immediately proved that he could skate and score and his physical game was something the Canadiens top 2 lines were desperately missing. He scored 15 goals in just 39 games with the Canadiens, but his play declined as the year went on. The playoffs saw him go goal less, and he was relegated to the 4th line for most of the post season. So which Benoit Pouliot will the Canadiens get next season? If it's the player we saw in the last part of the season, he may not be a Montreal Canadien for too much longer.