HabsWorld.net -- 

Mike Ribeiro is enjoying a stellar offensive season, in this his first full campaign at age 23. After he clearly distanced himself from the Habs’ former number two centre, Yanic Perreault, the talented centreman from Montreal is now this month’s proud recipient of the Molson Cup.

Ribeiro edged teammate and good friend Jose Theodore, as well as fellow productive youngster Michael Ryder in the voting for the Cup. While it may be considered a minor accomplishment for some, it is a definite step in the right direction for a player who some considered out of the Habs’ plans just last season. As he has done at every level of play, ‘Ribs’ is now shining on the scoresheet in the NHL. With 43 points so far this season, 12 of which are goals, he leads the club in that regard; six points ahead of Ryder. His +9 rating is good for tops on the club, a tribute to his offensive instincts and increased work on the other side of the ice.

While he still has a lot to learn, lining up alongside the likes of captain Saku Koivu, sniper Richard Zednik, and defender Sheldon Souray have all been added bonuses for the man seems to constantly have that puck on a string. One can only hope a player as talented as Ribeiro keeps up the great work from here on in, as a consistent effort each and every night will not only do wonders for him, but for his linemates who so clearly benefit from that creativity flowing throw his blades.

On behalf of all the fans, congratulations to Mike Ribeiro, January’s Molson Cup winner.