Bergevin views Domi as a winger, praises intangibles

Marc Bergevin can't quite put his finger on it, but there are qualities to Max Domi's game that he prefers to Alex Galchenyuk's.

Domi, the newest member of the Montreal Canadiens, was acquired Friday in a deal that saw the Habs part with the former third-overall pick Galchenyuk.

The two are separated by just one year and both have averaged 0.61 points per game over their respective careers, but it's Domi's work away from the puck which is most appealing, the Canadiens general manager told reporters Saturday.

"I encourage you to check out Max Domi highlights on YouTube. His energy and enthusiasm are off the charts," Bergevin said.

Billed as an offensive threat, the diminutive Domi also plays with an edge, something that rival players like Ryan Kesler have had the misfortune of being on the receiving end of.

"I welcome (fans) to watch him and to get to know him, and I think once he's here and they'll watch him play they'll appreciate what he brings," Bergevin added, as per TSN's John Lu.

The Canadiens GM also said that while Domi split time last season between left wing and center under former coach Rick Tocchet, he sees him lining up on the wing with his new club.

"We watched him (play center with Arizona) last year but we know he's a better winger," Bergevin said. "In a jam, I guess he could help at center but we don't want to put him expecting as a centerman."

Earlier Saturday, the Canadiens inked Domi to a two-year, $6.3-million contract extension.