Montreal Canadiens Report Cards: Josh Gorges

Josh Gorges was his old reliable self for the entire season, and it should be no surprise that the Canadiens struggled when he was out of the lineup.

STATS: 66 Games | 1 G-13 A = 14 P | 12 PIM | +6 | 45.2% Corsi | 3.9 Point Shares
PLAYOFFS: 17 games | 0 G-2 A = 2 P | 6 PIM | E | 47.9% Corsi

STORY: Josh Gorges is known for his shot blocking and defensive zone coverage which is a testament to his +6 mark despite having below average possession stats. Gorges will not lead the offence nor will he score many goals but every team needs a player like him.

Acquired with the first round pick that turned out to be Max Pacioretty from San Jose in exchange for Craig Rivet, Gorges has always been one of the better defencemen on the the team and fits in real nicely beside P.K. Subban.

When Gorges went down with a hand injury on the Canadiens West Coast trip, there was an adjustment period needed without his solid presence. The team went out to acquire Mike Weaver who is essentially Gorges in a smaller package.

More from Habs Report Cards

There isn’t much to say about Gorges who just goes about his game. His only goal scored this season was scored in his home province when the Canadiens went to Vancouver. He scored the fourth goal in a 4-1 win. Typical under the radar Gorges.

GRADE: B
Gorges wasn’t perfect this season, but he played his role beautifully. When he is beside Subban, both of them seem to play their best games. Subban knowing that Gorges will be in position to bail him out so he can take extra chances with the puck and Gorges knowing he doesn’t need to drive any offence with Subban on the ice.

FUTURE: Gorges still has four years remaining at $3.9 million which is a pretty solid deal. The only problem is that defensive defencemen don’t tend to age well so it will be interesting to see how Gorges progresses over the contract.

Many feel that Gorges will one day be a captain of the Canadiens, but there are a lot of leaders on this team. If Brian Gionta does go elsewhere this season, I think Gorges is primed to be the next captain. If Gionta stays for one last contract, then I think Gorges will be passed by some of the younger players.

Gorges isn’t flashy but should find himself on the left side of Subban going into next season and on the first unit of the penalty kill.

2014-2015: $3,900,000
2015-2016: $3,900,000
2016-2017: $3,900,000
2017-2018: $3,900,000

Home/Habs Report Cards