More Scratches in Montreal

The Montreal Canadiens have been trying to find some line-up chemistry despite leading the Northeast Division. The Habs are currently only .500 in their last 10 games and would be on the edge of not making the playoffs altogether if they were not in the lead in the division, 2 points up on Boston and the Bruins have a couple of games in hand. On Thursday night, the Habs decided to scratch PK Subban and Benoit Pouliot for their game against the Hurricanes, which turned out to be a wise decision, as the Canadiens came away with a win.

Pouliot hasn't been the dominating player that he was when he joined the Canadiens from Minnesota, scoring only 7 goals and 10 assists in 34 games this season. Nevertheless, his 17 points is good enough for 201st in pool scoring, which is up from his full season ranking of 303rd in 2010.  Some time in the press box may help his cause, trying to regain his form.

Subban has been in the middle of a bit of controversy, regarding his healthy scratches, already missing out on games this season.  With the Habs failing to find some consistency, another trip to the press box didn't seem to surprise many this time around.  Subban has 2 goals and 9 assists in 31 games, which is only good for 68th among defensemen this season.

Pouliot is only a member of the selection sheet pool, found in Box 22 and is in the middle of the box's scoring record, only 6 points behind the box leader.

Subban, on the other hand, belongs to John P. and you have to know John is frustrated with Subban's play, much like the Habs' coaching staff.  John currently sits in 15th spot in the standings and before Sunday's action, he is in the running for the Basement Dweller of the week, only 2 points up the current leaders for the distinction.