Obviously, we've yet to hit summer's boiling point, and though the Canadiens docket remains full, everyone's naturally concerned with the process to hire a new coach.

The name that seems to be coming up most, at the moment, is Marc Crawford. Though it's been a long time since Crawford made a successful run at a Stanley Cup, his experience in Quebec and his willingness to rededicate himself to learning french legitimizes what should already be considered a significant resume at the NHL level.

Would Crawford be open to bringing Patrick Roy along for the ride?

Would Roy be willing to ride shotgun, or does he need to be driving?

We've heard about Quenneville and Vigneault, who for the time being, both have jobs. Others, like myself, have suggested Guy Carbonneau should get a look. And of course, Michel Therrien and Bob Hartley have certainly been deemed worthy of an interview by a lot of the fans, and by different media types. We haven't heard much about Roy since Bergevin's hire.

Larry Robinson was recently quoted as willing to accept a role with the Canadiens, though he wouldn't comment extensively because his team is about to duke it out with the Rangers for a shot at the Stanley Cup. And Jacques Lemaire, still with the Devils in an advisory role, claims to be very happy and not considering moving anywhere.

I think Canadiens fans would be pretty happy with Crawford as coach. A calm and collected man with the media, who has a lot more fire behind the bench and with his team. And a combination of him, Roy and Robinson sure would give the team a lot from its bench. Sounds like a dream scenario that's unlikely to unfold... but it is possible. Also, we can't discount that Randy Cunneyworth remains employed at this juncture.

Shifting the conversation from head coach to assistant coach, there's something to be said of Josh Gorges' opinion of fiery Randy Ladouceur. He all but said he was the best defensive coach he's ever worked with, noting that having a former defenseman in that position is a huge help. When prompted as to what Gorges would think of Ladouceur getting a crack at being the head coach, he responded "but then I wouldn't have him as my D-coach."

Bergevin never mentioned what Ladouceur's future in the organization will involve, but it's unclear as to whether or not the Canadiens plan on retaining him.

A lot of good names out there being bandied about. The Canadiens will likely have their man in place before we find out which two teams are playing for the Cup.

Then the real fun begins...

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