NHL Draft of 2005
In late July 2005, the NHL conducted its draft over two days, a rescheduled event originally planned for late June due to an ongoing lockout that disrupted usual timelines. Following the draft lottery on July 22, the sequence for the selection of players was finalized, revealing that the Pittsburgh Penguins had secured the top spot to select the highly touted Sidney Crosby. This pivotal decision proved transformative for the franchise’s trajectory.
Montreal Canadiens’ Selection
Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens, securing the fifth overall pick, faced their own crucial decision. With Crosby, Bobby Ryan, Jack Johnson, and Benoit Pouliot already chosen, they eventually opted for Carey Price as their selection. This decision would also have significant implications for the team, as Price would go on to become a defining figure for the Canadiens over the next 15 years, amassing a remarkable total of 361 wins, which made him the most successful goaltender in the team’s illustrious history.
Price’s Impact and Legacy
Under Price’s leadership in net, the Canadiens managed to make playoff appearances in ten out of his fifteen seasons, despite often struggling with a lack of offensive depth. Although Price was not able to secure a championship for the team, his skill set and talent suggested that with a more potent supporting lineup, success could have been attainable.
There has been criticism surrounding Price’s hefty contract, which was an eight-year deal worth $84 million, as it took up a significant portion of the salary cap. Nevertheless, it was a deal any player in his position would have accepted. General management, led by Marc Bergevin at the time, invested heavily in building a formidable defense composed of large, imposing defensemen, believing that merely reaching the playoffs could pave the way for success—a strategy that ultimately faltered.
Reflections on Price’s Career
Championship teams typically emerge from consistent success through careful strategies, rather than mere luck in playoff scenarios.
Looking back, one can speculate how differently the landscape might have looked for Price had he played under the current management, which appears to prioritize stronger offensive capabilities. Tragically, injuries cut Price’s career short, leaving fans and analysts to wonder about the potential that could have been realized.
