The Montreal Canadiens made a bit of a surprise move on Friday, recalling Benoit Gratton from the Hamilton Bulldogs. Gratton has captained the AHL Bulldogs to a 18-9-2-1 record so far, good enough for 39 points and a spot atop the North Division.
Gratton had 14 goals and 35 points in 24 games with the ‘Dogs, and his +7 rating was fourth on the team. The 5’11 Montreal native was claimed off of waivers from the Calgary Flames in 2001. Gratton is known as a feisty competitor, who plays a solid, if not spectacular offensive game, is strong and stable on his skates, and is not afraid to get his nose dirty. It is expected that he will be in the lineup versus the Leafs.
In other Habs news, Jose Theodore, who left Thursday’s game with a collarbone injury, is just fine. There was some worry that the bone may have been fractured, but Theo was left with just a minor bruise. The star netminder suffered the injury from a Pierre Dagenais shot during warm-ups. Theodore feels fine, and is expected to get the start tomorrow night in Toronto.
Yanic Perreault and Patrice Brisebois, both suffering from minor injuries, made the trip to Toronto, though are not sure guarantees to play. Jason Ward will play tonight for the Hamilton Bulldogs, his second game of a mini conditioning stint. The 6’3, grinding winger may be recalled to play on Saturday.
With information from RDS.