HabsWorld.net -- 

On Monday, we learned that Josh Gorges was likely to be dealt after the Habs
were pressuring him to waive his no-trade clause to go to Toronto. 
Although he’s not going to the Leafs, he’s staying in the division as Gorges has
been dealt to Buffalo in exchange for Minnesota’ second round pick in the 2016
NHL Entry Draft.  The move freed up the money for Montreal to sign Tom
Gilbert to a two year, $5.6 M deal.

Gorges has been a cornerstone on Montreal’s blueline since being acquired
from San Jose in 2007 in exchange for Craig Rivet; the Habs also picked up a 1st
rounder used to select Max Pacioretty in the deal.  He has routinely led
the team (and been among the league leaders) in blocked shots while being an
anchor on the penalty kill.  His downfall is that he doesn’t provide a lot
of offence as he recorded just 13 goals in seven seasons with Montreal. 
With four years at $3.9 million per year left on his deal, that lack of offence
prompted Marc Bergevin to move him to clear cap space.

Last year, Gorges had a goal and 13 assists in 66 games with a career low 12
PIMS and a +6 rating.  He also chipped in a pair of assists in 17 playoff
contests.  He finished second on the team in blocks during the regular
season with 177 and tied for 5th in the league in that stat.  Gorges also
logged 21:14 of ice time per game, ranking him third on the Canadiens.

Gilbert has bounced around in recent years.  After spending several
seasons with Edmonton, he was dealt to Minnesota in 2012.  Last offseason
though, the Wild opted to buy out the final year of his six year, $24 million
contract, sending him to free agency where he wound up with Florida.

With the Panthers, Gilbert’s career was rejuvenated.  He posted 28
points (3 goals, 25 assists) in 73 games with Florida and saw time on both
special teams units.  His 21:10 TOI per game ranked third on the team. 
His advanced stats also are strong, you can view those
here. 
As a right hand shot, his acquisition should allow Alexei Emelin to return to
play his natural left hand side and provide some extra balance on the back end.

Gilbert’s Stats

Gorges’ Stats