Montreal, QC -- As reported late last night, the Montreal Canadiens completed yet another deal, sending defenseman Stephane Quintal to the Ottawa Senators for center Todd White.
White, 29, was being shopped by the Sens -for reasons unknown- and the Canadiens jumped on the opportunity to add his skill to the lineup.
"He cost us a very stable defenseman, but we feel he's worth it," said Habs GM Dave Pagnotta. "He provides us with a very strong center, and if we must, we can use him on the left wing. This was a solid move for our hockey club.
Soon after, the Canadiens played the trade-game once again - this time with the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim.
In an attempt to deepen their offensive production and strengthen their blueline, the Canadiens traded veteran defenseman Craig Rivet, youngster Marcel Hossa, top prospect Tomas Plekanec, their first-round and fourth-round draft picks in the upcoming draft to the Ducks in exchange for sniper Petr Sykora and defenseman Keith Carney.
"We dealt away some top talent and a top draft pick to try and make our team better," Pagnotta said. "I think we've succeeded.
"To add a player like Sykora, who's offensive game speaks for itself, and a hard-nosed player in Keith... how could we pass that up? We're a much better team today."
Sykora, 27, and Carney, 34, were both unavailable for comment, however they appear pleased with the opportunity to play in Montreal.
Rivet, 30, leaves the Habs after playing his entire career on his home-town team.
"It's hard to lose a player like that," said team captain Saku Koivu, a good friend of Rivet. "I'm sad to see him go, but I know this is part of the business. We improved our team and that's what's important. He's a great friend and I wish him all the best in Anaheim."
The Habs, meanwhile, are still in the trading market. Rumors continue to swirl over more possible deals involving Montreal.
Winger Pierre Dagenais and center Yanic Perreault were both supposedly dealt early today, but the Canadiens deny such reports.