Trevor Timmins, the Habsdirector of player personnel was interviewed on HF radio tonight. Among his comments and observations were the following: believes Grabovsky could surprise and make the Habs this season. He likes the gritty play of Grabovsky, a player who does not mind getting his nose dirty. Timmins felt what could slow Grabovsky's ascendancy to the NHL is his lack of english and a need to get use to North America. Timmins felt that Chipchura was the best player on the Bulldogs in the 7 games he played with them last year. Another player he feels might be NHL ready. Timmins feels that Lantandresse who has been working with a strength coach is now physically ready to play in the NHL. The one somewhat negative commnet was with regards to Kostsitsyn, he felt that his progress was slowed by his decision to spend an extra year in Russia. Timmins stated the reason they drafted Fischer this season was they felt he had significant offensive upside potential.

Timmins had a great track record in identifying talent in Ottawa, and hopefully he will replicate the success in Montreal. If his positive comments on Chipchura and Grabovsky come true then the Habs perceived weakness at center could be addressed from within the organization rather than through a trade.