Montreal Canadiens day on PHT continues with a look at five players that will be under the microscope in 2013-14...
Danny Briere -- Signed to a two-year, $8 million contract as a replacement for Michael Ryder, Briere comes to the Canadiens as a proven scorer, particularly in the playoffs. However, the diminutive forward is also 35 with a history of concussions, and he only had 16 points in 34 games last year while playing for Philadelphia. On being bought out by the Flyers, Briere said: “Last season was definitely one where I wasn’t happy with the way things went and I’m going to do everything in my power to turn that around. I’m hoping I can prove to everyone it was just a fluke.”
Andrei Markov -- Finally healthy, the 34-year-old defenseman played all 48 games in 2013, scoring 10 goals and adding 20 assists. Markov’s return to the lineup was a big reason the Habs saw their power play improve to fifth in the NHL from 28th the previous season. But with just one year left on his contract before he can become an unrestricted free agent, and with his best days behind him, it’s not totally clear how he fits into the club’s future plans. It should be interesting to see how his body holds up to a full 82-game schedule, plus the playoffs (if Montreal qualifies).
Jarred Tinordi -- Unlike Markov, Tinordi is a young d-man with practically his entire pro career ahead of him. The 21-year-old son of former NHL defenseman Mark Tinordi, he’s expected to compete for a roster spot in 2013-14 after being called up for eight regular-season and five playoff games last year. At 6-foot-6, Tinordi gives the Habs some much-needed size, not to mention a willingness to stick up for teammates. “Obviously I’m a big presence on the ice. I’m a big guy, and I try to be physical,” Tinordi told CBC Hamilton. “I think that’s something that helped Montreal when I got called up. That was kind of the role I wanted to play and where I fit in with the team.”
George Parros -- He won’t be expected to produce much in the way of offense, but the big enforcer was acquired in a trade with Florida for a reason. “He brings an element of respect, not only on the ice but with his teammates,” Habs GM Marc Bergevin said of Parros. “We did our due diligence. He’s a good person, a high-character guy that is well liked by his teammates and protects his teammates.” The acquisition may also allow physical forward Brandon Prust to spend more time on the ice and less in the penalty box.
Alex Galchenyuk -- If there’s a future superstar on the team, chances are it’s this guy. Still only 19, the third overall pick in the 2012 draft played all 48 games for the Habs last year, finishing with an impressive 27 points. Galchenyuk’s best month was April, when he scored 12 points in 14 games. In 2013-14, he’ll be expected to maintain that level of play, if not exceed it.
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