Canadiens Re-Sign Lapierre to Two-Year Contract

[Thrillhouse]

MONTREAL – Montreal Canadiens General Manager Bob Gainey announced Monday the signing of forward Maxim Lapierre to a two-year contract (2008-09 and 2009-10).

“Maxim is part of our core of young players who contribute to the success of our team. The determination, grit and energy he brings to the ice are important assets that we are looking for in our young players,” said Bob Gainey.

Lapierre, 23, will begin his fourth season with the Canadiens this fall. In 2007-08, he set career highs in games played (53), goals, assists and points (7-11-18). He also served 60 penalty minutes.

A native of St-Leonard, Lapierre played his 100th NHL game on the last regular-season matchup last April 5, 2008. Thus far in his NHL career, he registered 30 points (13 goals, 17 assists), and added 84 penalty minutes.

Lapierre was selected 61st overall in the second round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft by the Canadiens.

[Unforgiven]

I'm torn about this re-signing. I don't really like Maxim as a player. Much like most agitators, he's just not my cup of tea. But on the other hand, I recognize his potential to be the next Darcy Tucker. I think that as an agitator and a player he has that potential to one day put up 40 points a season while serving as an agitator that gets the opposition off their game. Which is a great asset to have.

...But on the other hand, he's just such a purse swinging little homo, I can't stand it.