Passion Play : Habs win 4-1 over NYR

Max Pacioretty had 3 points, as did his linemates Eric Cole and David Desharnais - but Scott Gomez was a man possessed.

22 shifts for a total of 14:23 on the ice and he was noticeable each and every time. He had 4 shots on goal, 3 of which were solid scoring chances, he was involved in plays, his legs were moving, and he was coming up with the great set-up passes one would expect of Scott Gomez. "He looks like a young man out there" was how Marty Turco described Gomez on the broadcast - Forgetting perhaps that 12-year NHL veteran Gomez is only 32. If he's motivated, it seems clear Scott Gomez still has some good hockey left in him.



Randy Cunneyworth had praise for the strong play of Gomez on the night as well. “"Scotty was good. He ended up taking on a bigger role as we encountered a couple of injuries. It was his former team and he was ready to play and battle. He did all the things he has to on both sides of the puck.”

Gomez finished with 1 assist on the night, but could have had 2 on the same play, setting up Michael Blunden twice on the same shift. Blunden would score with the second opportunity. Gomez also set up PK Subban later in the game, during a scramble early in the 3rd, but Subban would hit the post.



Peter Budaj was strong when he needed to be. The chip & chase game worked wonders, and according to John Tortorella the Rangers played a terrible defensive game and the Canadiens took advantage.

Rene Bourque looked a few steps behind some plays, but he's been on a long suspension and is adjusting to a new team. Give him a few games. He was noticeable, went to the net, tried mixing it up a little, and if he plays with that interest level every game - like Gomez - he too will be a factor down the stretch.