While it is always dangerous to read too much into preseason results, one number troubles me: Of all the 30-odd NHL franchises, the Habs had by far the highest number of goals against — 33. That alone doesn’t necessarily mean much, but the fact is, none of their three NHL ready goalies — Huet, Aebischer and Danis — were particularly distinguished. I believe the Canadiens are a much improved team from last season. Better coached, better up front, improved defensively, more highly motivated, fewer locker room distractions and, most importantly, deeper. If Koivu or Markov or Kovalev is injured, I’m hopeful the team will still be able to win, unlike last year. So, in my mind, as the regular season begins, the big question is can Huet deliver?
We’ll find out soon enough. I’m making the drive down to Buffalo for the season opener on Friday. Can’t wait.
