AuRevoir, Georges!

The Montreal Canadiens have decided to part ways with disgruntled enforcer, and oft-injured, Georges Laraque. In recent days, the organization had come to the conclusion that it would be in the best interest for all parties to simply move on.

A mere two years after signing Laraque to a three year, 4.5 million dollar deal, Gainey has decided to buy out the final year of the contract. Laraque, meanwhile, will not be finishing out this season with the Habs, and will take his walking papers immediately.

General Manager, Bob Gainey and head coach, Jacques Martin both commented on the lack of production from Laraque and also understated the need of an enforcer in today's NHL. "The Red Wings, I don't think they have an enforcer and they've won some Cups," said Martin. "I think it depends on your team and where you are at in your development. The game has changed and speed has become a major factor. It's nice to have, but it's not a necessity as some teams have proven." One wonders if Brad May and his total nine fighting majors thus far, constitutes as an enforcer.

This revelation came somewhat as a surprise to Laraque, who was visibly distracted and disappointed in a media interview yesterday, after talking with Bob Gainey. "I was very emotional and I'm very hurt by this decision. I'm a proud guy and I may have let my emotions get the better of me," Laraque told a TSN reporter.

Timing on the matter seems a little suspect, as the team is currently fighting for a playoff spot. With the Eastern conference tightening up, an enforcer with the reputation of Laraque could have been an asset. Unless Gainey has found a way to better utilize his newly found cap space, the timing is somewhat strange.

Laraque was also quoted as saying the time was unfortunate, due to the teams race to the playoffs and his ongoing charity work with Haiti relief. Laraque's charity work with the community and international organizations will most likely be what he is remembered for the most. Over the years of his career in Edmonton, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, and Montreal Laraque has been recognized for his charitable work.

Only time will tell where Georges will play next. His fans should rest assured that he will re-surface with another team that sees the need for an enforcer. Good luck to him.