On the eve of the Stanley Cup Finals, I couldn’t help but look through the By George selection of hockey articles. This reflection from 2009 caught my eye…

In talking of the golden era of hockey, I’d have to say the Montreal Canadiens franchise of the late 60′s through the 70′s was the very best of the game. In my humble opinion, the Habs of that time produced what could be considered “the ultimate hockey line.” 

Goal: Jacques Plante (#1 netminder through the 50′s and early 60′s)

“D”: Larry Robinson and Serge Savard (and, of course, the third amigo – Guy Lapointe)

Centre: Jean Beliveau (“The Gentleman of Hockey” who retired after hoisting the Cup in ’71)

Right wing:  Guy Lafleur (Who can forget the chants of “Guy, Guy, Guy” that rocked the Forum)

Left wing:  Bob Gainey (The best two-way player – ever)

So much for my picks…. I was keenly interested to see the selection of the all-time best Canadians, picked by their loyal fans. Here are the results of the franchise’s “Fans Choice” survey:

Goal:  Patrick Roy (and then Ken Dryden and Jacques Plante)

Defense:  Larry Robinson, Doug Harvey, Serge Savard, Andre Markov, Guy Lapointe, and Chris Chelios – in that order

Centre:  Jean Beliveau (and then Henri Richard and Howie Morenz)

Right Wing :  Maurice Richard (followed by Guy Lafleur and Yvan Cournoyer)

Left Wing:  Toe Blake (followed by Bob Gainey, Steve Shutt and then Frank Mahovlich)

Check out the full Fans Choice voting.   Long live the Habs! Long live those glorious memories!