Back from vacation and it took a while to get caught up.

 The Habs are better up front slightly with the addition of Samsonov and Johnson and subtraction of Zed and Bulis. I actually liked Bulis and Zed. Zed was really strong on the puck and a great forechecker but just had a damaged confidence while Bulis had great wheels and could back check well. I wish them well and I'm sure they'll do well.

 As for Johnson, I expect Dowd type play from him. Samsonov worries me because he can be streeky. If Kovy and Samy decide they don't feel like playing at the same time, we could be in trouble because they make up a huge part of our offense. A huge challenge for Carbs to motivate both these guys!

 How about Ribs? Many here on this board hate him and wrote him off. Is it possible Gainey actually feels he needs his offense up the middle? Is he merely signed because Gainey couldn't pick up anyone better?

 My concerns are with our D. We need to shore up the back end if we expect to take the next step in the playoffs.

 I predict we will make the playoffs with what little Gainey has done so far. Like last season, it'll be because of goaltending!