Habs to deal Kovalev?

It's surprising to hear but it's almost the only scenario that can be seen happening in Montreal. Though there haven't been any recent trade talks involving Kovalev's name, Gm Bob Gainey's decision to tell Kovalev to stay home during the Canadiens' current road trip is hardly a vote of confidence to the enigmatic Russian. Arguably one of the most skilled players, if not the most skilled, in the league, Kovalev has been known as a lazy player. Often called a dog, Kovalev has shown flashes of greatness and flashes of selfishness. Such duality no more apparent then when Montreal played Boston in the playoffs when he simply quit on a play after being tapped by a stick, attempting to draw a penalty. Montreal ended up losing that game giving Boston a 3-1 lead in the series. Kovalev then lead the way for the Habs to make a comeback. But what now for Montreal's most skilled player? Told to stay home, his recent play has been abysmal. It's hard to think he'll be welcomed back into the dressing room when the GM pretty much says the teams better without it's best player. An upcoming UFA, Kovalev will likely be looking for a new team come July 1st whether the Habs deal him or keep him at the deadline. Montreal is currently in a tailspin and dealing Kovalev, if they can find a buyer, might gain good prospect or a draft pick or two. Considering Mathieu Schneider yielded a couple of picks, Kovalev just might get Montreal a decent package coming back from a team secured in the playoffs looking to sure up their offense.