It’s an annual tradition for gamers everywhere to wait anxiously for the latest EA Sports NHL game. For the 2009 version, it’s only fitting that its focus be on the rich tradition of the league’s most storied franchise, the Montreal Canadiens.

In an effort to commemorate the upcoming Canadiens Centennial on December 4, 2009, NHL09 will feature an assortment of Canadiens All-Stars and legends of the game from the past century. This historical twist will finally give NHL series veterans the chance to step into the skates of some of the greatest players in Habs history.

Imagine getting the chance to fill the net with Maurice “Rocket” Richard or Jean Beliveau, fly down the wing with Guy Lafleur as his trademark locks flow in the wind, or make the big save with Ken Dryden or Patrick Roy, as none other than the “Big Three” of Larry Robinson, Serge Savard and Guy Lapointe clear the crease and start the rush.