| Subject: Montreal Announces Plans |
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MTL GM
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Date Posted: 20:37:51 04/05/03 Sat
Montreal, QB - After a few days of evaluation, new Marauders GM Sean Gallagher met with the media today to discuss the future of the franchise during his reign.
"First, let me say that I like the core group here. Whomever came before me built a nice group of youngsters and I am grateful for that.
"Second, I plan to be here for a long time, so I will not be looking for quick fixes to right the ship. I see the process taking several seasons to build up a good, competetive base. Once we have that strength, we can start moving youth for stars and taking risks to make runs at the Cup and whatnot. For the time being, that will not be the case.
"My intent is to build this team around the players I have who are a couple years from their prime. Players like Samsonov, Parrish, Friesen, Deadmarsh, Redden, Boyle, Kalinin and our prospects will be the key to our turnaround.
"I also intend to continue to stock the team through the draft, using my picks to augment our system."
When asked what the future held for players not in the list mentioned, Gallagher was forthright.
"Players who are high-salary players and in their primes right now will be traded. Excellent players like Turgeon and Berezin will be moved if the opportunity presents itself. Likewise, there are certain players that do not fit our mold, like Hrdina and York. They too will be moved, if the right opportunity is presented. The same goes for our goalies, Roman Cechmanek and Johan Hedberg."
Gallagher was asked to comment on team Captain Michael Peca, whose name had not been mentioned in either group.
"Michael Peca is an outstanding hockey player and leader. I have not decided whether I will keep him on as a mentor to my younger players, or move him. I imagine that I will discuss this more with Michael as the trade deadline approaches, just to see where he stands."
Since his hiring just days ago, Gallagher has pulled off two trades. The first sent defenseman Scott Hannan to Yellowknife for Steve McCarthy and London's 1st round pick in 2004.
"I really like Scott Hannan," said Gallagher, "but McCarthy has just as much promise and the pick put it over the edge for me."
Montreal's second trade was another defenseman, Hans Jonsson, who was sent to Saskatoon for Marty Reasoner.
"Honestly, Jonsson was soon to be an odd man out here and I like the skills that Marty possesses. He's a couple years out for us, and a bit risky, but I'm hoping that he'll find his way and be a great playmaker for us."
As for other transactions?
"There have been talks, but nothing that I would describe as progressing. Mostly other GM's checking to see what I'm willing to part with. It's to be expected. I'm sure there are plenty of talks to come."
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