A collection of the latest news from around the world of hockey:
The Montreal Canadiens aren’t very good right now. But they aren’t crazy either. Before they signed P.K Subban to a long-term deal, not everyone in the organization was sold on keeping him. That happens with a lot of teams when you’re talking about big dollars committed to one guy. Ultimately the Habs decided Subban was part of the future. After flying out of the gate to start the season, not much has gone right in Montreal. Should Subban be playing better considering how much he makes? Sure, but so should a lot of guys. He doesn’t deserve to be the scapegoat.
Michel Therrien did no one any favors by essentially coming out publicly and blaming Subban for the team’s latest loss. The coach didn’t mention his captain Max Pacioretty, who was also at fault for the winning goal. Therrien chose not to defend his marquee player, like he did Andrei Markov after a terrible mistake earlier this season. It was the last thing the team needed. The rumors continue to fly. Is there a rift in the dressing room? Have the players tuned out the coach? And then today the question surfaced… will the Habs trade P.K Subban?
Not suggesting #Canadiens will trade Subban. Just saying one team confirmed #Habs are “gauging the market”.
— Louis Jean (@LouisJean_TVA) February 19, 2016
Easy answer: no way. Are other GM’s making calls on Subban, trying to pick at the carcass that is the Canadiens? If they’re good GM’s, of course they are. Does that mean he is about to traded? No, it doesn’t. But in the world of social media that we live in, journalists and opposing fans alike are salivating at the idea of a Subban trade. It won’t happen, but it gives people something to talk about, and let’s face it, the Habs are an easy target right now. [Edmonton Journal], [CBC], [Pension Plan Puppets]
In other news…
Sticking with the Habs, they will be without David Desharnais for the next few weeks. [Eyes on the Prize]
The Capitals have re-signed defenceman Taylor Chorney. [Washington Post]
Jets coach Paul Maurice found himself ejected from the game after arguing a call. That happens so easily in baseball, I find it funny that it’s not a more common occurrence in hockey. [Yahoo Sports]
Don Henderson is still out after being hit by Dennis Wideman. [ESPN]. And also, ESPN doesn’t know anything about hockey:
NHL referee still suffering from concussion after Chris Wideman hit https://t.co/NFyACfIefq
— ESPN NHL coverage (@ESPN_NHL) February 19, 2016
Pretty nice save by the Blues Brian Elliott. [The Score]
Will Leo Komarov finally be punished for his dirty play? [Globe and Mail]
Some projections for Team Canada’s World Cup roster. [Today’s Slapshot]. And how about Sweden? [THN]
Pekka Rinne bounced back with a shut-out. [Fox Sports]
P.A Parenteau is thriving under coach Mike Babcock. [Sportsnet]
And finally, Radko Gudas isn’t what the Flyers should be about. He isn’t what anyone should be about. [Philly.com]