It was reported here yesterday that there was much discussion that Montreal Canadiens’ centreman Scott Gomez could be moving to a new zip code in Long Island. This correspondent attempted to contact, but was unable to reach, both New York Islanders' General Manager Garth Snow and Montreal Canadiens’ General Manager Pierre Gauthier late yesterday afternoon for comment.

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Whitby - Aug. 23, 2011 - It was reported here yesterday that there was much discussion that Montreal Canadiens’ centreman Scott Gomez could be moving to a new zip code in Long Island.

This correspondent attempted to contact, but was unable to reach, both New York Islanders' General Manager Garth Snow and Montreal Canadiens’ General Manager Pierre Gauthier late yesterday afternoon for comment.

Yesterday’s Gomez “chatter” was based on the grounds that his excessive salary was moved before by the New York Ranger’s organization back in 2009. The problem now for Montreal is the fact that Gomez’ trade value has diminished considerably. The New York Islanders also have no need for a centre at this time.

Montreal will likely hold onto Gomez and his $7.3 million salary for the 2011-12 season. Some sports reporters like that of Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun have previously reported that “the Canadiens could bury Scott Gomez and his $7.3 million cap hit in the minors next year”.

However, many of the NHL teams that need to hit the salary cap floor have Scott Gomez as a viable pick as the UFA list of remaining available players is very thin in talent.

Scott Gomez will find renewed energy and offence this year with the addition of Erik Cole alongside teammate Brian Gionta as the three played on the USA Olympic team in 2006 in Turin, Italy. Gomez’ production problems have not been on the power play where he has continued to produce. The frustration for many Habs fans lies with his play at even strength. Gomez’ offensive production has seen a drastic drop whereby he amassed only 38 points in 2010-11.

Expect bigger and brighter things for Scott Gomez in 2011-12.