Player Review: Scott Gomez
Our Montreal Canadiens Correspondent Christopher Nardi profiles and reviews Scott Gomez.
When previous Habs‘ GM Bob Gainey announced during the summer of 2009 that he had traded for Scott Gomez, the first thing that came to mind to many was… “who??”. Although Scott Gomez is far from a no-name player in the league, Habs fans were expecting Gainey to sign a high impact player after the dismal season they had during the centennial year. Instead, the GM signed Gomez, Cammalleri and Gionta to fill in an already short (in size) roster. But how did manage to sign players like Gionta and Cammalleri when it seems like there was nobody on the roster to attract these high talented players? That’s where Gomez came in.
By replacing Chris Higgins with Gomez in the trade that brought Tom Pyatt, Michael Busto and Gomez to Montreal for Higgins, Ryan McDonagh, Pavel Valentenko and Doug Janik, Bob Gainey showed that Montreal could indeed attract big names. And by adding Gomez’ “star power”, Gainey was able to attract Gomez’ futur linemates, Cammalleri and Gionta. The Habs would never have been able to accomplish such a radical change on the first line if they had relied on Christopher Higgins to attract other players.
Although Gomez may be known in Montreal for his playmaking ability, he is also notorious for his seven year, 51.5 million dollar contract (7.357 mil/year cap hit). Gomez has had only one 80 point season (84 points in 2005-2006 with the Devils) and three 70 point seasons in 10 complete seasons. Yet the Habs’ administration was banking hard on the fact that Gomez’ best season came when he was on a line with Brian Gionta and that that feat could be repeated. Although point-wise, it was not, Gomez’ presence was felt the most when on a line with… you guessed it, Brian Gionta. The two players have very high chemistry, and both told the press that they were quite happy to be playing together again.
At a high price, Gomez has become a key member of the Habs’ offense, and if they want to repeat the feat accomplished during the 2009-2010 playoffs, but this time during a whole season, Gomez not only has to operate well, he has to continue producing even when Gionta isn’t on the ice with him.
Finally, I end with this question. Since Gomez is from Alaska, do you think he also sees Russia from his front porch? Ah, the great mysteries of life!
Christopher Nardi
NHLHS Montreal Canadiens Correspondent
cnardi@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @dragonlancehuma
