Bob Gainey's Deadline List

Now it's important we get feedback, so feel free to dissect these proposals!

Alright, not really, but my predictions for Canadiens trades before next Wednesday, March 4: Deadline Day. I am making trades from the perspective that the Canadiens have a good team and have a chance come playoff time. So yes, the Habs may be losing some youth and depth, but let's take a chance and go for it (for once).

(if I get one right, I'll be happy)

Trade #1: 

To Edmonton: Mathieu Carle (prospect), Georges Laraque, 3rd Round Pick

To Montreal: Erik Cole, 5th Round Pick

Why?: Erik Cole is a proven, effective scorer in the playoffs with size and strength. He can play on any of the top three lines and make a difference. He's also played a little at centre, so he adds much needed depth. Laraque wants out, Edmonton loves him, and he loves Edmonton. Great trade for all. 

Trade # 2: 

To Colorado: 3rd Round Pick, Brock Trotter (prospect)

To Montreal: Ian Lapperiere

Why?: Lapperiere adds some much needed sandpaper for the 4th line, replacing Laraque. Not only that, he can score, and will stand up for teammates when necessary. He's Tom Kostopolous, bigger, stronger, and he'll be a hit with the fans. 

Trade # 3:

To Montreal: Curtis Joseph

To Toronto: 7th Round Pick

Why?: Joseph doesn't play now. He's the only experienced veteran who will come in and be comfortable perhaps even being a number three. He played well last year in the playoffs. And he can give advice to Halak and Price as the pressure mounts. A solid acquisition with little risk and great potential reward.

Trade # 4: 

To Minnesota: Steve Begin

To Montreal: 4th Round Pick

Why?: Minnesota is always looking for toughness come playoff time. Begin brings that and more. Most Habs fans love him, but its only fair to trade him so he has the chance to play, and Minnesota is a good fit.

Trade # 5:

To Montreal: Teemu Selanne, 3rd round pick

To Anaheim: Chris Higgins, Francis Bouillon

Why?: Selanne and Koivu have chemistry. This trade gives the Canadiens the chance to win now. Selanne would bring a dimension this team is missing: a pure goal scorer. Higgins has not lived up to his potential, and Latendresse is coming back and can fill his role. 

Perhaps The Doc will now conduct a financial review and prove these impossible in a cap world, but they seem reasonable, and if any of them happen, I'll be happy.