http://www.canada.com/topics/sports/hockey/canadiensstory.html?id=a1af4ff5-f237-4b24-bf7c-a52d57fb27a9&k=89157

Tick, tick, tick ... That's the sound of time running out on the Canadiens as they attempt to negotiate a new deal with defenceman Francis Bouillon before he becomes an unrestricted free agent at midnight tonight.

Bouillon's agent, Toronto lawyer Don Meehan, met with Canadiens general manager Bob Gainey yesterday, but there was no deal forthcoming. While both sides are tight-lipped about the state of negotiations, money appears to be the major stumbling block. In past years, Bouillon has left money on the table in return for some job security. This time around, he's hoping to take advantage of the fact that a) he's coming off a strong season, and b) he has the bargaining power that comes from being an unrestricted free agent.

Bouillon made about $600,000 U.S. last season and he would like to close the gap on teammate Mathieu Dandenault, whose four-year contract averages out to a shade more than $1.7 million. Bouillon averaged about two minutes more ice time per game and had two more points than Dandenault, despite missing 15 games with an ankle injury.

The rumour mill: Gainey, who did sign minor-leaguer Jonathan Ferland yesterday, is known for his surprises, but I can say with some certainty that the Canadiens aren't going to trade David Aebischer for Martin St. Louis or Vinnie Lecavalier. And while Georges Laraque appears ready to leave Edmonton, the veteran banger has indicated on a number of occasions that he doesn't want to play in his home town.

Social note: Congratulations to Canadiens captain Saku Koivu and his wife, Hanna, who delivered a healthy baby boy Wednesday in Finland. The boy's name is Aatos. The Koivus also have a daughter, Ilona.