Montreal needs Todd Bertuzzi. Hear me out on this...

The big fish have come and gone and Bob Gainey has not snared any of them. Before Habs fans jump off the cliff and think they are doomed to another fruitless free agent period, please consider the following name without scoffing - Todd Bertuzzi.

Yes, he is no longer the 100-point monster he was earlier in his career. Yes, he no longer has the edge he possessed prior to the Steve Moore incident. Yes, many people believe his stint in Anaheim was a failure. But, let's look at this thing logically.

Bertuzzi had 40 points and 97 PIMs in 68 games last season. He is over 230lbs and six-foot three. Montreal led the league in goals last season and their primary need is no goal-scoring, but rather grit and toughness.

So wouldn't Bertuzzi fit this bill? Convince the guy to play on the third line and as the screener on the power play. Tell him he fills in on the top two lines when an injury occurs. Give him the fresh start he needs, away from Vancouver, Colorado, Anaheim, Brian Burke and the Western Conference.

This makes sense, people, on so many levels. Bertuzzi DOESN'T have to be a top line player. But he can be a very effective role player and leader. A two-year deal worth $2.5-3 million per season and we are golden, people.

So, now that I have made my case - are you still scoffing? Time is running out and Bertuzzi could be the best fish left for Gainey.