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Doubting Thomas: Vanek laments poor finish with Habs

Montreal Canadiens v New York Rangers - Game Six

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 29: Thomas Vanek #20 of the Montreal Canadiens walks back to lockerroom after warm ups prior to the game against the New York Rangers during Game Six of the Eastern Conference Final in the 2014 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 29, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

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Thomas Vanek’s run with the Montreal Canadiens ended on a low note and as the team packs up for the summer, he told reporters he’s got a lot to think about as he heads to free agency.

Vanek had no goals and two assists in the Eastern Conference Final against the New York Rangers. Overall in the playoffs, he had five goals and 10 points with four of the five goals coming against the Boston Bruins.

So why did he struggle against New York? It wasn’t because he was hurt.

Vanek had been on a line with David Desharnais and Max Pacioretty but was eventually moved to the third line with Daniel Briere and Rene Bourque. That adjustment was apparently tough for Vanek to make.

“I was put in a position to do well here and once I got moved I struggled, couldn’t find chemistry,” Vanek said.

As for whether or not he could see himself returning to Montreal, he said he could because he wants to play for a winning team and that’s what they have there. All that said, Vanek said he’s excited for the summer and to be an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career.

The only question now is who will come calling for him after such a disappointing finish with the Habs.

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