MONTREAL – Chances are the writers of the movie “Pay It Forward” didn’t have Scott Gomez in mind when they penned their script…even if its title does apply nicely to the star center’s style of play.

An undisputed master of precision passing, Gomez led the Canadiens in assists in 2009-10, chipping in 47 helpers in his first season with the club. Despite having to adjust to a constantly fluctuating line as players Michael Cammalleri, Brian Gionta and Benoit Pouliot all fell victim to injuries, the gifted pivot continued to create scoring chances and collect points the same way he has since entering the league.

Since first assisting on Bobby Holik’s goal on Penguins netminder Peter Skudra on Oct.7, 1999, Gomez hasn’t looked back, taking special pride in celebrating with a teammate he helps set up. Before his rookie debut was over, he had already added a second career point to his tally, assisting on a goal by Brian Rolston.

Most assists since 1999-00
Player	Games	Assists
Joe Thornton	779	617
Nicklas Lidstrom	800	487
Daniel Alfredsson	731	485
Scott Gomez	784	477

Fast-forward 10 seasons to the eve of the 2010-11 campaign and the speedy center has solidified himself as one of the NHL’s premier playmakers. Amassing 477 assists since his rookie season in 1999-00, Gomez now sits fourth among assist-leaders in that span, behind the likes of Joe Thornton, Nicklas Lidstrom and Daniel Alfredsson.

Carrying the same recipe for success into the playoffs last spring, Gomez enjoyed a career-high 12 assists in the 2009-10 postseason to go along with his career-tying total of 14 points.

Having already broken the 600 point mark last season, count on Gomez to set his sights on his next career milestone of 500 assists – a benchmark he shouldn’t have too much trouble achieving. And with nine seasons of over 40 assists already under his belt, you can bet he’ll be gunning for a repeat of those numbers this time around.

Vincent Cauchy is a writer for canadiens.com. Translated by Justin Fragapane.

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