All posts tagged Max Pacioretty

Pacioretty a Hab for Seven Years – Why?


Max Pacioretty is well liked in Montreal.

Presumably, Max Pacioretty is well liked by his Mom also. That does not mean she wants him to move in for six years …

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The Habs inked ‘Patches’ to a six year extension yesterday. Added to his one year deal – Max will be a Canadien for the next seven seasons.

Good or bad?

Pacioretty had a career high season last year following a disastrous time the year before. Give the American credit for not only coming back from a concussion and broken vertebrate – kudos for coming back with no fear.

Following a life and career threatening injury, many times an athlete is never the same. A perfect example is former Pittsburgh Penguin Kevin Stevens.

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Stevens was a goal scoring machine until a fateful day in May – 1993. Skating to get the puck in the corner, Stevens’ face collided with Islander Rich Pilon’s visor. Stevens was knocked out on impact and he fell to the ice face first.

One hundred stitches were required to sew back the skin in his face following hours of reconstructive surgery.

Kevin’s stints in Boston, L.A, New York, St.Louis, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh were never able to revitalize a career snakebitten by fear. Stevens was also arrested in a hotel room with a prostitute and crack cocaine.

Luckily for Hab fans – the closest Pacioretty came to such shenanigans, was being on the same team as Andrei Kostitsyn.

Pacioretty has not proven anything. One good season following an injury such as his could be a fluke. Max had to dig deep  to prove to the Habs and himself that he deserved a chance. Anger also was key as Max was infuriated at having his season cut short by the Bruins’ captain. Pacioretty missed the playoffs and watched a Bruin team win the Stanley Cup.

A Cup that may not have been won if Pacioretty was in the lineup in the Habs -Bruins first round match-up.

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The Habs should obtain the power forward and not let him skate to whiter pastures. A reward for his tenacity is a no – brainer, especially on a team with Bergevin as G.M. Few skaters were as tenacious as Bergevin the player.

Six years is too much however. Three years is ample time to reward and see if Patches is indeed the real deal.

Heck, three years is two and a half years longer than his Mom would probably allow him in his old bedroom.

And she loves him …?

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by Rick Keene on August 14, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on August 14, 2012

http://laforumdemontreal.wordpress.com/2012/08/14/pacioretty-a-hab-for-seven-years-why/

Monday Q Tip


Did you rake the leaves, wash the car and feed the dog?

Perhaps you raked the dog, washed the leaves and stuffed Kibbles n’ Bits into your car’s gas tank … ?

No worries – at least you did something this past weekend. That’s more than the;

St. Louis Blues

In case all your weekend tasks kept you away from your television / computer / buddy who is a hockey fan – the L.A. Kings swept the Blues in four games. If your are keeping track of such things – the Kings have now eliminated the number one and two seeds in the Western Conference.

The Kings had just a little more experience than St. Louis and combined with the loss of Halak, this series was as anti- climatic as discovering your new girlfriend is a he and adores playing horseshoes ( not that there is anything wrong with horseshoes ).

Blues’ goalie Elliot, the keeper of the season’s best goals against average – did not play bad. On occasion – when a team requires a win, a change between the pipes shakes things up. Adorns a team’s Christmas tree a different perspective as they gander back toward the crease. St. Louis had this advantage all season with the best goalie tandem in the NHL. Unfortunately, Halak picked the worse time to be run over by his teammate and injure his lower body. The series would have been different otherwise …

A Special Birthday

Yesterday, Denis Brodeur and his wife, spent the day wondering where the years have gone. For them, forty years appears like yesterday as they sat around reminiscing and watching the Devils take a 3 – 1 commanding lead against the Flyers.

Was it really their little boy? The one who cried when he first lost a game as a net minder in Atom hockey? Was it him standing in goals yesterday as the newly – turned, forty year old, winningest goaltender in hockey history? Saving his way to yet another Devils’ win and accumulating more wins and lore to pack in his suitcase for his eventual trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame?

It sure was M. et Madame Brodeur.

For one moment, do not think his teammates are not aware of these facts and are giving that little extra.The little Devils – all the way to the big ones … are going to help anyway they can to give Martin Brodeur the best birthday present in hockey.

Lord Stanley’s Cup!

Sentimental fans, even the ones who live under the Arch in St. Louis, must all be cheering for Brodeur and nostalgia … Sorry Mr. Quick – your time will come!


Speaking of goalies …

Since that fateful morning in 1985 when Flyers’ net minder Pelle Lindbergh drove his Porsche into a wall, his former position continues to ‘ haunt ‘ Philadelphia.

Ironically, as a young lad in Sweden – Lindbergh dreamed of playing for the Flyers and skating in his idol’s steps. His hero? Bernie Parent. Pelle’s parents going so far to bring the little Lindbergh to North America to see Parent play …

Pelle’s Porsche – Curse?

The Flyers, about now – wish either Lindbergh or Parent were in goals. Bryzgalov cannot make the ‘ big save ‘ and it is deflating the Flyers’ playoff balloon. The man whose fear lies ‘ in the woods ‘, is not out of the woods. He is not playing bad. He is playing much better than he did against Pittsburgh. Sadly, he cannot channel Patrick Roy of 1986 or Pelle Lindbergh of 1995 … Ouija board anyone?

This is not your Father’s hockey league …

It used to be, players, coaches and presumably their wives – all remained with one organization for minimum ten years. Unless, of course – your name happened to be Marc Bergevin and you played defense.

Now – everyone is moving so much, a GPS is required to keep up to date in your hockey pools.

The Hawks have announced, Norm ( no relation to the t.v. Star ) Maciver, a former assistant coach in Boston and most recently director of scouting in Chicago – has been appointed the new Ass’t G.M. in Chicago …

Maciver takes Montreal G.M. Bergevin’s place who held the same positions in Chicago.

Marc? I’ll be right there ….!

Now, it is reported Bergevin – is recruiting Leafs’ director of player personnel Rick Dudley to come and be his assistant in Montreal. Dudley has been with the Leafs since 2011. Dudley was the G.M. in Atlanta before his Toronto tenure and was replaced by former Hawks’ assistant G.M Cheveldae when the Thrashers moved to Winnipeg. If this is the case – Dudley ( a former Buffalo Sabre ) would replace Larry Carriere ( another former Sabre ), as the assistant G.M. in Montreal.

Scotty Bowman was a coach in Montreal and the G.M. in Buffalo. He is presently a senior advisor in Chicago and his son is the G.M. Of the BlackHawks.

No news whether Denis Savard; a former BlackHawk / Habs’ player and a past coach in Chicago – is returning to Montreal or ending up in Buffalo.

Confused … ?

Go outside and get the Kibbles n’ Bits from the gas tank. Things will be more smooth after that …

Finally …

Max Pacioretty greets Zdeno Chara at the World Hockey Championships!

Can you read Max ‘s mind?

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by Rick Keene on May 7, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on May 7, 2012

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Monday Q-Tip ( or how I learned to stop worrying and love Gary Bettman)


Spent the weekend shopping?

Perhaps weaving in and out of alleys ….? Looking for your dog? Cat? Drunken hamster?

Maybe – the lusty music of Barry White played in the background as your fingers explored and caressed. Every vibration from the tune’s bass sending impulses through your fingertips and onto the keyboard as porn was being browsed.

Not to worry … Here is what you missed in the National Hockey League.

East is East – West is West

( and Raffi Torres will never forget ).

Raffia Torres will appeal his suspension of twenty- five games or won’t he? This is the question and have his chances increased since Chris Neal leveled Brian Boyle on Saturday night?

The Senator hit the Rangers’ Boyle with a very similar hit albeit not as bad as Torres’ on Hossa. Neal’s hit was the same as Max Pacioretty nailing the Penguins‘ Chris Letang … Max received a two game suspension and since Neil is a somewhat repeat offender ( was fined before ), Mr. Neal should receive five games if Shanahan and the league wish to be taken serious …

Whatever the outcome, a suspension or slap on the hockey glove – the decision will give Torres some leverage if he decides to appeal. The problem? Torres has been a bad, bad boy too often. He may have used all his ‘ get out of jail for free ‘ cards and cannot collect 200 million for passing go … Not this time.

Pittsburgh – Flyers Series

See what happens when a team does not listen to their Moms? Recall the saying: ‘ walk away … count to ten … ‘? How about the phrase; ‘ if your friend jumps off a bridge will you too …’?

The Malkin – led, Crosby – wannabe Penguins played hockey the Flyers’ way and lost. No ifs, ands or Bryzgalov’s about it. Following an inspiring attemp to come back from a 3 – 0 deficit, the Pens were too banged up emotionally and physically to beat their cross – state rivals. Penguin goalie Fleury was as bad as a goalie could get in the series and why his coach played him so often – is a mystery as deep as Scott Gomez’ stay in Montreal.

This series was a lot of fun and a dreaded sense could be felt throughout the Flyers’ home in the final moments even though the home team was eliminating their rivals. Nobody likes to see a good thing end. Whoever the Flyers’ opponents will be in the next round – it will take Philadelphia a few games to get pumped.

Bruins – Caps

If this series was named after a toy; a yo – yo would be suffice. These two teams trade goals and games like a hooker on a good night. The Bruins are resilient which makes Hab fans cringe and Bostonian’s nervous. For some reason, Boston excels when their backs are against the boards. A Washington upset seems unlikely as game seven plays out in the land of Bobby Orr. If ever was a time for Ovechkin to dispel the ‘ Crosby is king ‘ rumors – it is now or maybe never for Alexander the Great. Rookie Washington net minder Holtby has played with so much poise, Tomas Vokoun may find himself on yet another team come spring 2012.

Vancouver – L.A

The Canucks along with the Sedin Sisters won the Presidents Trophy. If the trophy had been named after John F. Kennedy – an assassination was carried out true to form. Goalie Robert Luongo was killed off as the starting net minder, Alain Vigneault may have been ‘ iced ‘ as the head coach and the entire city was left without a reason to riot.

Are the Canucks quickly becoming the Buffalo Bills or the Atlanta Braves of hockey? It appears an off – season shake up will be the task at hand. Just don’t say ‘ Quick ‘ too quickly to a Canuck right now …

Detroit – Nashville

Is it a surprise the Predators dismissed the Wings faster than a bouncer dissed a minor at a nightclub? Not really … Is it a surprise the high – powered Wings scored less than a pedophile millionaire in Thailand? How do you say yes in Swedish?

Datsyuk, Franzen and Zetterburg – three guys who every team would love to have. Trios amigos who were stopped in their tracks by an outstanding goalie named Rinne. The Predators are a good team yet their net minder threw everything aside when it counted most. The Wings are in transition, much like the Canadiens of 1980 inclusively … The veterans are aging and the youth are filling their baby bottles with experience.

Time will tell if the Wings will keep their fans equipped with octopi or if they will fade into Hab or Islanders land. Jimmy Howard is no Terry Sawchuk and has Mike Babcock’s act run old in the city of Motown…

San Jose – St. Louis

Another year, another team aside from San Jose will hoist La Coupe Stanley. Why is it – season after non – festive season, do the Sharks exit from the playoffs quicker than a patron at a fire – engulfed movie theatre?

The Boston Red Sox had the curse of the Bambino. The Cubs – the curse of the Billy goat. The Sharks? The curse of Doug Wilson …

Mr. Wilson was appointed the G.M of the Sharks in 2003. Mr. Wilson once played in Chicago as a defenceman. Mr. Wilson left for San Jose and the Blackhawks have since won the Cup. San Jose… ? Not so much … The city of San Jose should blow up a puck at center ice. Exorcise the demons that reside in Wilson’s office. Re – name the squad the San Jose Goats … Anything to keep San Josians coming back to the rink. After all, before Larionov – hockey was as transparent in Wilson’s land as Pierre Gauthier was in Montreal.

That’s it hockey fans from coast to coast …

Keep your sticks on the ice, lock up your cats and dogs and remember – don’t let your hamsters drive drunk!

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by Rick Keene on April 23, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on April 23, 2012

http://laforumdemontreal.wordpress.com/2012/04/23/monday-q-tip-or-how-i-learned-to-stop-worrying-and-love-gary-bettman/

It’s All Campbell’s Fault !


Players almost killing players.

In turn – players almost killing players with retaliation.

Which – in turn, causes more retaliation.

Hockey has always been played by these rules. Sometimes, the retaliation happened the following shift. Other times – twenty minutes later and often; the next time the two teams played one another. It is and was – the nature of the beast.

Hockey; A Tough game

In the first round of the 2012 playoffs, what we are witnessing is an alarming trend of disrespect. An arm for a head. There is no respect for opponents, for star players and most importantly – no respect for the officiating.

Much like the Montreal Canadiens‘ treatment of Randy Cunneyworth, the NHL’s disciplinary committee has placed their referees in a no-win situation. It is not Brendan Shanahan‘s fault. It is the fault of the greedy owners that are running the ‘show’ and in contrast – ruining the great game of hockey. In effect – the current situation; the head-shots, the elbows, the blindsided hits – can all be placed directly into the lap of Colin Campbell.

Campbell ( and his advisors; aka the owners ), had the opportunity in 2010-11 to put an end to the madness. Mr. ( and I use the term loosely ) Campbell as the head of discipline in that season – had a gift placed under his Christmas tree. A present he not only overlooked – a beautifully – wrapped occasion to alter hockey as we know it.

Zdeno Chara committed so many fouls on Max Pacioretty; leaving the Canadiens’ forward unconscious and death – like on the ice was the least of Campbell and the league’s problem. Chara, in one 6’9 ” play – committed interference , roughing, boarding and hitting-from-behind. A fierce ‘ hockey play ‘ that stunned the viewing audience from ‘coast to coast’. For ten minutes or more, Max Pacioretty lay motionless on the ice and to many children, parents and grandparents – ‘Patches’ had passed on to the great rink in the sky.

An event that shook hockey. More than most of the infamous scandals of the past twenty – years inside the rink. Even Bertuzzi’s destruction of Steve Moore‘s career ( and neck ) was able to be categorized. Retribution between two teams; an age-old tradition reaching back to the days of the Rocket, Milt Schmidt and Conn Smythe. Bertuzzi’s act was not proper. The consequences as improper as anyone has seen on the rink. Yet it was something that  has happened in the game of hockey too many times to count.The difference? Moore’s state of health since …

Chara, in strong contrast, potentially placed Pacioretty into  a coffin because the Hab forward passed him by. Add that to a little shove Pacioretty had given Chara the year before – it was a type of retribution yet Chara crossed the line. In a very BIG way …

Campbell et al should have suspended the Bruin player twenty games for pushing Pacioretty’s head into the stanchion. Evidence of the defence man’s hand clearly doing the nasty deed – all over Youtube, the papers and the internet in many forms. So obvious was Chara’s irrational behaviour – a monkey watching hockey for the first time would cringe and reach for his Mom’s hand.

It was an opportunity for the NHL to curb the enthusiasm of the new generation of hockey players. Face it. These new guys have been raised on violent video games, violent movies and UFC fighting. They are a new breed of hockey warriors that have grown from milk bottles to Red Bull. They live in an era where ‘ no responsibility ‘ is required or awarded. On top of that – they are dressed like characters from the film;  Mad Max.

Colin Campbell’s negligence only re-enforced those ideas. His negligence allowing the players, the coaches and the suits upstairs to see how far they can go.

The Richard Family

In the old days, the Rocket and all the players that went to war on the ice surface – arrived home to a different world. The Simpsons were not telling Eddie Shore‘s kids that it was cool to be rebellious. Rap music was not insulting Red Kelly’s offspring because they did not have ‘ bling’. In the old days – another Campbell , as in Clarence – stood his ground and suspended Maurice Richard for striking an official.

A decision that affected the way the players behaved  toward officials to this day. Since that decision;

Players do not kill officials!

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by Rick Keene on April 19, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on April 19, 2012

http://laforumdemontreal.wordpress.com/2012/04/19/its-all-campbells-fault/

In Hindsight … Martin should have Stayed – as Coach


Believe it or not – Rick Keene is wrong on occasion.

Not often , yet often enough to sleep on the porch on a cold and rainy night periodically. What … ? How can that be …? You ask as concern replaces a grin.

Let me explain …

Les Canadiens de Montreal possessed a record of 13 – 12 – 7. One game and a hiccup above the tidewater mark of a sporting team’s success. A man named Jacques , conceived by Mr. and Mrs. Martin , led the team as their coach.

Myself , along with throngs of G.M ‘s everywhere in la Belle Province – cried for Martin’s head to be placed on a platter of purgatory. ‘Surely – les Canadiens , an equipe that sailed to newer heights in recent years , were better than this . Martin must be the villain in la ville de Montreal …’

We cried from Gatineau to Gauthier’s house. Martin’s stifling and boring defensive system was caging the team’s offensive stars. Enough we cried ! And we cried , and we cried , and we cried until tears were enough to dispatch the former Peterborough Petes‘ coach from behind the bench.

Well , guess what ?

The Montreal team’s offensive stars were meant to be caged. If not , their release may have caused death by boredom. ‘Death to Smoochy‘ as the kids in the city stayed awake to watch the Habs while their parents slept – the elders unable to replace the Flyin’ Frenchmen of old. Young men and women unaware of the visions of Brian Gionta that jumped fences in the minds of their parents as Smurfs replaced sheep in Mom and Dad‘s worst nightmares.

As Randy Cunneyworth discovered , a team such as this required Martin’s logic – Martin’s lethargy. Jumpin’ Jacques was not a fool with his foot – long rush mentality. All along , Martin kept the team in transition to hide the truth and dispel the myth of the Montreal Canadiens. A myth that the team may score.

If the not-so-mighty Habs retained Martin as coach , the team would have carried on boringly as a game over .500 hockey club. If so – their record today would stand somewhere around forty – two wins and another twenty – odd overtime or shoot- out losses. Do the math . Ninety points placed the Capitals in the playoffs. Under coach Martin ; ninety – three or four points were possible .

Hello Subban – bye , bye Semin ! ‘ Ovie ‘ would not have a chance to titillate Thomas. Instead , a Habs – Bruins repeat of last season could have been an Hors d ‘ oeuvre to a Stanley Cup – a cup sautéed just right for the palates of the people from Pierrefonds.

A first – round match with Gorges , Pacioretty and Markov in the line – up against the Bruins. A championship team that ‘ squeaked by ‘ nos Canadiens last year. Bobby Orr‘s alma mater would have been exactly what Pacioretty ‘s doctors ordered for the Habs. A confidence builder, a chance of redemption – a payback filled with pride.

Gill , Kostitsyn and Cammalleri may have remained with the club if Martin remained. Almost the same team that went to the Eastern Conference finals two years ago. Better than this season …?

Believe it or not …
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by Rick Keene on April 8, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on April 8, 2012

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And the First Star is …


Must have been a lot of rich people attending the match between the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning last night at Le Centre Bell …

What other explanation can there be for the selection of the three stars ? The crowd was obviously drunk  and to be inebriated at the home of the Habs requires cash … and lots of it !

Erik Cole as one star ?  Why not ? Two goals in a game in a season that has been one positive note after another . Pacioretty or Desharnais as one of the other two stars … ? Yup  … ! After all , one musketeer follows the other …

If the Hab faithful were not drinking like a duck on a dry day – they would have noticed the game’s first star was as obvious as a Kenny Roger’s facelift . There was one guy on the ice who contributed to his team’s defence and was one of the largest contributors to the offence. Perhaps that is the reason the throng of people were exempt from the on – ice antics of le premiere etoile . The best player on the ice for the home team is not obvious on most occasions …

It was a work of art . A drawing – forever implanted in the sketch book of the Canadiens’ history. Pure finesse on the part of a player who is not known for such things. If a chalkboard was placed in the dressing room of a hockey team consisting of eleven year olds  - a coach would describe the play as one of perfection ;

  • Cradle the puck on your blade as if it were an egg.
  • Shoulders squared – keep your head up as you maintain constant motion with the puck.
  • Pick a point to where the intended receiver will be …
  • Give a quick head fake to the opposite direction and fire a crisp pass .

The above is precisely what the Montreal Canadien player did. Beautiful to watch and beautiful to explain to your wife , husband or friends over breakfast . At least an attempt could be made – after all , the Mona Lisa must be seen to be appreciated .

I give you …

The first star of last night’s match for his beautiful pass to V. Lecavalier of Tampa Bay …

Mr. Peter Budaj !

( Click on Peter’s Name to Watch )

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by Rick Keene on April 5, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on April 5, 2012

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Two Montrealers Create First Ever Concussion Certification Course . A No – Brainer


Mild traumatic brain injury, or concussion, can be defined as a short-lived loss of brain function due to head trauma that resolves spontaneously. With concussion, function may be interrupted but there is no structural damage to the brain.

Mild traumatic brain injury, or concussion, can be defined as a short-lived loss of brain function due to head trauma that resolves spontaneously. With concussion, function may be interrupted but there is no structural damage to the brain.

I had my first concussion at the age of thirteen – Rugby will do that to a skinny kid with a big head.By repeating the above paragraph – I may be exhibiting a symptom of that injury. This is exactly the reason Chris Costello and Ronny Varga are implementing a concussion certification program in Montreal. A cutting edge organization that Costello and Varga hope will end all second guessing when it comes to recognizing and dealing with the effects of a trauma to the head.

” If you Google concussion …” Says current occupational therapist and future M.D Costello. “There are thousands of sites emitting every fact known about concussions. What is important is the anatomy of the brain and what effects an impact will provoke in each region. Say your child is a mild – mannered athlete and suddenly they become a ‘ daredevil on ice ‘ after a hit to the head . Chances are this change of judgement is due to a damaged frontal lobe . If a parent or coach possesses this knowledge ,treatment can be implemented quicker and the long term prognosis is close to perfect.”

According to Varga, the chief physiotherapist for the Montreal Impact soccer club from 2003 – 2005 ,  there are too many variables involved with head injuries to take any chances. As a soccer Dad, Varga sees no room for error where his kids are concerned and believes every parent should take the same precautions. For this reason – Varga and Costello decided to use their ’ heads ‘ and create a company named reACT.

” We are giving our concussion recognition and prevention certification program to coaches, referees and phys Ed instructors of different sports associations and schools. Coaches and teachers will be instructed with a manual – a condensed ‘ how to ‘ version of recognizing the symptoms of a concussion.” States Costello whose training as a future doctor included stints with the Green Bay Packers and the Carolina Panthers of the NFL as well as the Montreal Canadiens and Montreal Allouettes..

” Call it a CPR course for the head. Given the spotlight surrounding head trauma, it is about time something like this is made available.We will be giving all of our students USB keys and a power point presentation. Our students ( coaches, parents etc ) must instruct their staffs in order to be certified.”

The brain floats in cerebrospinal fluid and is encased in the skull. These protections allow it to withstand many of the minor injuries that occur in day to day life. However, if there is sufficient force to cause the brain to bounce against the rigid bones of the skull, then there is potential for injury. While temporary loss of consciousness due to injury means that a concussion has taken place, most concussions occur without the patient being knocked out. A fact which makes the certification process that much more important as educators attempt to ensure a safety net around their teams.

Chris Costello has a Bachelor of Science degree in OccupationalTherapy as well as chemistry. Ronny Varga also holds two degrees. A bachelors in Physiology and Physiotherapy respectively. Varga, a devoted husband and father of two – is also the proprietor of Action Sport Physio located in Montreal West. He recently expanded to 5000 sq.feet and has ten medical professionals under his watch.

This dynamic duo’s goals are simple. To be seen as the Canadian leaders and visionaries when it comes to concussion certification and management. Upon completion , the highest protocols would be implemented to protect athletes at every level and every age group. Protocols assembled through a collection of evidence – based research and consultation.

Occupational Therapists , Physiotherapists, Athletic Therapists, Psychologists, Physicians and professional athletes have all been consulted to enable the greatest certification possible.

Max Pacioretty, the Canadiens forward who knows all too well the effects of a concussion – has been approached as a possible spokesman for reACT and according to Costello , there is a great chance ‘Patches’ will be signing on once the Habs’ season is finalized.

Max Pacioretty, Chris Costello and Ronny Varga

If all goes according to plan – this pair of Montreal natives will ensure their certificate program is not only recognized yet legislated at the highest governmental levels.

A heads – up if there ever was one …

If you believe someone you know may be experiencing concussion – like symptoms , contact Chris or Ronny @ 1 438 82 react (73228) reACTcanada.org

If you believe someone you know may be experiencing concussion – like symptoms, contact Chris or Ronny @ 1 438 82 react (73228) reACTcanada.org

This – I do not mind repeating…

Go to their Website REact Canada

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Want to advertise on my site ? Contact me keenerick@hotmail.com . Follow me on twitter ! @akeenehabit

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by Rick Keene on March 7, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on March 7, 2012

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Don’t Panic ! Part Two


* The theme of my blog is in prayer for former Montreal Expos’ player Gary Carter. Gary is battling brain cancer.God bless ...

The only thing that can mess up the Habs’ bright future is the management. That is why it is so crucial the decisions that Geoff Molson and company will make in the ensuing six months.

Forget the saga that turns coach Cunneyworth around in circles. Forget the poor decisions that have plagued Gauthier’s legacy. The Canadiens ownership must sit down in a room, close the blinds and think responsibly about the future of Le Club de Hockey Canadien.

There is a tremendous core of talented hockey players skating under Jacques Plante’s banner right now. This group of skaters, not unlike a bunch of children that have been spawned by a bad up – bringing, require guidance, firmness and love in order to excel to greater heights.

Starting fresh next year – here is a list of the forwards that should
remain with the team and the attributes they place on the skating rink.

A True Captain

Erik Cole

Has there been a more pleasant surprise to Habs fans since it was learned Jose Theodore used Propecia to lure female fans to his crease? Cole arrived with a lengthy contract under an umbrella of doubt. Would he be a twenty goal scorer or a man who may be lucky to hit fifteen. These were the sums of his past two seasons in Carolina and as any player who is
aging – questions arise.Erik will not only hit the twenty – five goal mark – he will do it with force. It has been a long time since a Montreal forward, shift upon shift, has entered the opposition’s zone with conviction.Too often in years past – have Hab forwards gained a zone actin like a lost puppy.When Cole has the puck,the chances of a goal for him and his mates rise dramatically. Erik is also a great power – role model for Pacioretty. Brothers – in – broken – vertebrae, the two have fast become forces to be reckoned with.

Max Pacioretty

As mentioned above – where would ‘patches’ be this season without Cole? Whatever nerves remained after returning from a broken vertebrae, were quickly dispatched past the newly
replaced stanchion at the Bell Center. Pacioretty has picked up where he once was before Chara almost killed him. Max is on pace for a thirty goal season with one big assist to an older version of himself – Erik Cole. Max will double his career highs in points, goals and assists and provide the Habs with a power forward for years to come.

David Desharnais

Living proof that a small French Quebecer has the passion to suceed for the Mobtreal Canadiens. The third player on the Cole – Pacioretty line,Desharnais’ability to drive opposing defencemen nuts with his constant footwork provides an excellent ying to Cole and Pacioretty’ s yang.Desharnais has already doubled his points total from his sole season in the NHL and is growing stronger by the game. Barring injury – David just may be Montreal’s version of a certain player in Tampa. Can we start calling him the Pocket St.Louis ?

Tomas Plekanec

Cole - The best forward in years ....

Montreal’s most consistent forward for the past two seasons and the team’s leading point getter. ‘Pleks’ is having an off year for the first time in his sixth NHL season. Tomas does
everything.Penalty kill,power play man and one of the best two- way players on the team.Considering what has gone on with this team in 2011-12, one gets the feeling that Tomas has lost some of his spirit.Like Price – when a player gives 110% and too many around are mailing their effort in, Plekanec seems to have thrown his arms in the air. Lately, with a resurgence in the team’s effort, Tomas is once again playing with passion and consistency. Unless the team has an opportunity to trade for a Rick Nash – look for Tomas to play out his contract in Montreal and sign another in the year 2016.

Brian Gionta

Of the three main players that arrived in Montreal as part of Bob Gainey’s ‘cleaning house’( Gomez and Cammalleri the others), Gionta is the only one who has earned his dollars.Rewarded as the team captain- Brian provides leadership,heart and until recently – points to Saku Koivu’s old squad.This season has not been a lucky one for Gionta.Sidelined with a lower body injury early in the season that caused him to miss eleven games- the Habs captain has been sidelined with a torn bicep muscle for three weeks.An injury that may end his season.If the team makes the playoffs and make it to round two – expect the team’s heart to be back in action. Gionta will and deserves to remain in Montreal for the remainder of his five year contract that ends in 2014.

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by Rick Keene on February 14, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on February 14, 2012

http://laforumdemontreal.wordpress.com/2012/02/14/dont-panic-part-two/

Gomez Scores !


Gomez scored …!

What does everybody think right now ….?

Check it out !

Check it out !

Check it out !

Check it out !

Check it out !

Check it out !

Aw … What the heck :)

Don ‘ t believe it ? See it with your own eyes !

This is for you Scott !

Crazy eh ?

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Check out Habs Eye on the Prize , Knuckles and the Hockey Writers – they may tell you why ?

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by Rick Keene on February 10, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on February 10, 2012

http://laforumdemontreal.wordpress.com/2012/02/10/gomez-scores/

Where Are They Now ? Part One


Logo used (1917-19, 1921-22)

Image via Wikipedia

Le Forum de Montreal has decided to look up some of the hockey players that are not playing hockey for the Montreal Canadiens anymore. Just to see  what they are up to …?

These players were once embedded deep in out hearts and were an intricate part of our daily lives. Why forget about them after all that …?

Some have been hard to find while others – as easy as stopping a Rick Green snapshot ! This is who we have discovered so far …

The Players

 
Andrei Kostitsyn 
 
Andrei fell on hard times once he stopped skating for le bleu, blanc et rouge. Due to his monthly payments to the Russian mob – Andrei was forced to move in with his brother Sergei in Nashville. Following several fights related to his absolute disliking of country music – Andrei has been allocated to taking out the trash while he serves the remaining time in his house -arrest sentence. Unfortunatley for Andrei , his state-of-the-art toupee will have to wait due to financial reasons.
 
Lars Eller
 
Eller was able to grab a job at the local Tim Horton‘s due to his easy-going personality. The patrons that come and go at the drive through window – love hearing tales of his four-goal night. There are also rumors that Lars is making extra cash on the side selling t-shirts of his exploits as a Canadien. Eller ‘ s best customer is former Hab – Jaroslav Halak.
 
Scott Gomez
 
Scott did not have it easy once his playing career was over. He modeled hat ware for a while before landing a job in his native Alaska as a geography teacher for Sarah Palin. Word on the street is Palin gets a kick from rubbing Gomez’ head every morning for 
 ’ good luck’ ! Mr. Gomez did get in a little trouble before he left the organization and was escorted out of the Bell Center for throwing pucks at Bob Gainey and yelling …” You ruined my career you defensive -minded snot …!” 
 
Brian Gionta
 
The little American eased into his new position as an adviser for Brendan Gallagher – the Habs’s hot prospect. Brian spent a good three months helping Brendan shop for items that will help Gallagher in his NHL career. Items such as Dr. Sholl’s five inch skate inserts and  a book written by Yvon Cournyoyer titled ‘ How to survive in a land of giants ‘. Gionta is said to be pleased with his new role …
 
 
Max Pacioretty
 
Max had a very hard time adjusting to his life after hockey. He spent the better part of five years ‘ soul-searching’ in Tibet. Befriended by a little-known monk by the name of Tokyo Joe – Pacioretty found new purpose in his life teaching Joe and the rest of the monks how to play hockey. Max’s ‘ team ‘ went on to win a championship in the National Buddhist League and Pacioretty was honored for introducing padding that wrapped around the religious stanchions. No word if the Molsons are planning a court case …
 
David Desharnais
 
David was quickly recruited for work once he stopped playing. The Parti Quebecoise signed on the tiny frenchman to police the language laws in the NHL. Some of Desharnais’ duties ; making sure Vincent Lecavalier watches two hours of L’Anti-chambre every night, verifying that Gary Bettman manufacturers the proper use of the accent aigu on official documents and giving french lessons to all the Montreal Canadiens’ coaches- past and present. David also has a new video in stores ; ‘ Vive les Canadiens Libre !’
 
Rene Bourque
 
Bourque’s career ended almost as quickly as it started with the Habs. A good -looking dude, Rene caught on very quick as a dancer at Club 281 . He slipped rather eloquently into his new role as Tarzan; King of the Well-Endowed. The only downside to Bourque’s new job ? Getting suspended once a week for elbowing coworkers with bigger penises than him …
 
Stay tuned as we attempt to track down as many ex-Habs we can find …
 
Meanwhile – check out Kevin and the boys at Habs Eye on the Prize , the Hockey Writers and Knuckles Nilan. They will fill you in about STUFF !
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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by Rick Keene on January 19, 2012  •  Permalink
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Posted by Rick Keene on January 19, 2012

http://laforumdemontreal.wordpress.com/2012/01/19/where-are-they-now-part-one/

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