The New Face of the Montreal Canadiens.

During the course of the last few days, general manager Bob Gainey transformed the Montreal Canadiens' roster. The transformation began during the 2009 NHL entry draft. Gainey and his staff decided to draft some local talent, something that the Habs' fans have been demanding for many years. Louis Leblanc, a solid 18-year-old center, became the Canadiens' first round pick. Then in the fifth round, another local junior player was picked. Gabriel Dumont from the 2009 Memorial Cup semifinalists Voltigeurs de Drummondville, was chosen. I can't precisely remember who was the last Quebec native player to be chosen during the first round by the Habs. And don't ask me when the last time the Habs chose two of them during the same year. It feels like almost 50 years ago. The Canadiens' choices overall pleased the fans, but the transformation was far from over. The Canadiens had to deal with more than 10 regular players without a contract at July 1. Bob Gainey offered a contract to Mike Komisarek and ... (link)