The argument is that Vancouver is the best team in the West. Check. The argument is that Philadelphia is the best or second best team in the East. Check. All that remains on the checklist is Washington. If they beat the Caps too, perhaps it is time to give the Habs some respect. Actually, it is probably time already.

The Habs had to rely on Carey Price to do his usual thing, but they also seemed to have control of the proceedings.

They did it without Markov

The first game without Andrei Markov and they didn't appear to miss him. Sure, they will in the long run, but on night one, credit to the partnership of Subban and Picard. They played well before Markov was injured, and they picked it up right away against Philly. As well as Subban is playing, Picard was the story. An excellent off-season signing. He looks cool, makes the easy play, and communicates well. You could hear him yelling to PK from the gondola. Watching him now, you wonder how he could never get a regular job.

Another great off-season acquisition is Jeff Halpern who took a nasty hit on the head against the glass. He looked groggy leaving the ice, but the coach would not confirm it.

An interesting side note or two in the final two minutes. Jody Shelley was on the powerplay which went 0 for 6 at the end. That already is a joke, but funnier still is Travis Moen who skated by Shelley and congratulated him for his powerplay time. Shelley didn't think it was too funny as he hacked Moen and took a penalty about ten seconds later.

Price tosses the puck into the crowd

After the game, Gionta and Gomez tried to get the game puck for Price to honour his shutout, but Pronger wouldn't relinquish the puck until the ref coaxed him. Funnier still is as soon as Price got the souvenir he threw it into the crowd. Not working on his game room in the den is Carey who is now tied for the league lead in wins.

Plekanec top of the league

A final thought for Tomas Plekanec. This is a man in full. He is using remarkable speed to back up defenders. Also, what a no-look shot to score. Sensational stuff. When the Plekanec line hits the blue line and Plekanec has the puck, you can just tell good things can happen. Plekanec is one of the best players in hockey right now. There, I said it. One of the best. Nine points in his last five games. He kills penalties. He works the powerplay. He has a great attitude. He's great in the room. He signed a big contract and got in the best shape of his career to prove his worth. Plekanec is the complete package.

Nashville on Thursday. The way they're playing, the only thing to watch for is a let down after another huge and impressive win.