barry33 wrote:

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Alot of stuff to like with this team so far:

1. Skating- when they want to they can skate with just about any team in the league. That will be a plus for sure in the "new NHL". It is just a matter of making sure they do it on a consistent basis.
   
2. System- nice to see the old BG trap gone and back to a more aggressive 2-1-2 system that Carbo employs. Has not really cost us many odd man rushes so far and that is your concern with an aggressive system. Cudos to the coaches.
   
3. Goaltending- still a bit of an adventure on some shots but all in all not too bad really. I think they will come into their own as the season wears on
   
4. Koivu line- right now, one of the most consistent the team has seen. My worries are, if the other lines do not start to contribute more, is that the opposition will simply load up on this line and wear them down. But so far, so good.
   
5. Defence- all in all not too shabby. Souray still has moments where he seems to struggle with the new rules but these lapses do not seem to be as often (once a game rather than last year's 3-4). Markov to me, still looks a bit disinterested. Hopefully the Cube gets back soon

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Agree with your overall analysis, Barry33. One thing I wish the defence could execute a little more effectively is the stretch pass. Too often it seems the forwards are either too stationary or having to retreat deep into the Habs defensive zone to start a rush. Only Markov can seemingly consistently make that long break out pass to the forwards. As a result the big weapon the Hab forwards have, speed is often somewhat negated.

I think your comment on Markov is on the mark. The guy does not look fully engaged on the ice. Heard rumours that he is seriously considering heading back to Russia next year, hopefully those stories are incorrect, the Habs need a motivated Markov if they are going anywhere this year.