  The Montreal Canadiens sent forward Sergei Kostitsyn (left) to the Nashville Predators in exchange for goaltender Dan Ellis (right) and forward Dustin Boyd. (QMI Agency/AFP photos) |
The Montreal Canadiens rid themselves of problem child Sergei Kostitsyn Tuesday, shipping him to the Nashville Predators for soon-to-be free agents goaltender Dan Ellis (unrestricted) and forward Dustin Boyd (restricted) and future considerations.
Kostitsyn, long a pain for the Canadiens, played himself off the Habs during the club's long playoff run and ticked off teammates with his attitude.
After one morning skate, as a healthy scratch, Kostitsyn was expected to do extra work after practice, but left the ice.
He was chastized by goaltender Carey Price, who walked by his locker and said something along the lines of "why weren't you out there? Too good?"
He was left at home for at least one road trip in the playoffs.
Kostitsyn left the club's AHL farm team at one point, looking for a trade.
The Habs will have the negotiating rights to Ellis, who's expected to command some attention if he hits the market, until Thursday.
Ellis appeared stoked about the deal, posting on his Twitter page that he is "very excited about the trade! Its (sp) an honor to be part of a team with such great tradition and passion! Hope we can figure something out!"
The Canadiens could flip him again before he becomes a free agent, though they are looking for another goaltender after trading playoff hero Jaroslav Halak.
