Rivet on Hockey Lockout Live

Will we see Craig Rivet in a Montreal Canadiens jersey this season? Photo courtesy www.faceoff.com

It’s quite a different early December for North Bay’s Craig Rivet. What used to be hectic December schedule of practice and games with the Montreal Canadiens, has turned into a much slower pace for the veteran NHL defenceman.

Rivet, a guest on CKAT’s Hockey Lockout Live told the panel that he continues to train with Concordia Universities hockey team during the week, and on the weekend’s he’s been playing on a charity travel team that’s been playing exhibition games across Quebec with proceeds going to McDonald’s charities.

Rivet also reacted to comments made Wednesday by the senior director of the NHLPA, Ted Saskin, who said Gary Bettman is the wrong man to run the NHL.

“I’m disappointing that Gary Bettman is unwilling to negotiate,” Rivet said.

“Bettman doesn’t want to start with small things to build towards other things.”

Rivet also says the notion of a salary cap is not an option for players. “The salary cap is a non-starter for negotiations,” he said.

If the season is officially cancelled Rivet says he has some decisions to make. He’s been offered a couple opportunities overseas and when the season is officially cancelled he’ll probably join a European team, maybe even join a teammate.

“It would be nice to hook up with Saku Koivu over there, “ Rivet said about his longtime friend who’s currently playing in Finland.

While you might not see Craig Rivet playing on the ice, you could see him in the neighbourhood, because for the first time in 15 years Rivet can enjoy Christmas in his hometown.
“It will be nice to spend time with family in North Bay,” Rivet said.

But Rivet still puts up hope that his Christmas present will be a new deal between the NHL and its players.

“I hope it doesn’t come down to who wins or who loses, as long as they get a deal signed,” Rivet said.

You know that’s on many hockey fans Christmas wish list too.