from Allan Muir of Sports Illustrated,

Subban's talent makes him the heart of the Canadiens, but it's his swagger that makes him the team's soul. He's not just a player. He's an entertainer, a throwback to the days of Yvan Cournoyer, Guy Lafleur and Steve Shutt. Subban may be Ontario-born, but he's a Flying Frenchman through and through.

His defensive play has matured. And so has he. The unflagging team-first spirit he displayed with Team Canada in Sochi while being relegated to the press box demonstrated his commitment to winning above all else. He's still learning how to make all the right sacrifices, but the willingness is there.

All those elements combine to make him the most irreplaceable player in the organization, and that's why his next contract should reflect that. Carey Price is a terrific goalie, and after his performance in Sochi, he now ranks among the very best in the world. But there are always capable goalies to be had, and Montreal has a pretty decent heir apparent in its system in Memorial Cup-winner Zach Fucale.

There's nobody else like Subban in the pipeline. Or anywhere else in the NHL, for that matter.

more

This morning, Subban tweeted this,,,