this is a stupid argument. Ruutu is better for his team than Laraque is for his, it's pretty plain to see if you watch both of them play. Lucic wasn't fazed by Laraque in that last game, where everyone on the ice for the opposition was pissed at Ruutu in at least the past 4 games. George takes up room, whereas Ruutu gets results, both in points, distracting the opponent, and drawing penalties. Of course Laraque is much more intimidating and stronger, but that only helps in the corners and when hitting a slow-moving target. Ruutu can hit too, and he's got more speed. There's no 'intangible' column in the stats obviously, but the stats that are recorded do indeed show Ruutu ahead of Laraque. Also, I'm sure Kovalev loves having BGL there, if he were ever to pass. One less skilled player to help the team. Laraque - 0 points, -4, 24 PIM, 7:51 ice time per game Ruutu - 6 points, +4, 33 PIM, 13 minutes ice time per game. Still, it's a stupid argument. All that said, Montreal is ahead of Ottawa in the standings and that probably says much more, but I'll stand by my position that Ruutu is better for his team than Laraque is for his.