Major: A former Canadiens defenseman well-known to fans is accused and is in serious trouble

Who could forget the famous trade between the Montreal Canadiens and the Dallas Stars involving Mike Ribeiro and Janne Niinimaa? Mike was labeled as a troublemaker, and rightfully so, but his replacement was no different.

Niinimaa was never well-liked in the Canadiens' locker room. According to Pierre Gervais, he was a player who did not show respect to the members of the organization.


Now, the Finnish player is facing a five-year suspended prison sentence, as he is charged with serious tax fraud in Finland.


According to our information, the former defenseman is accused of intentionally failing to pay his taxes for several years and is facing criminal charges. To make matters worse, he reportedly did not appear at his court hearing, adding to the charges against him.

His lawyer denies everything, but that's indeed his job. He wouldn't have a case if he boldly declared his client's guilt.

So, the Canadiens traded an excellent hockey player in Ribeiro for a universally disliked defenseman who is now in legal trouble. I don't know about you, but I would have preferred to keep Ribeiro. Despite his well-known problems, he knew how to play hockey.

Source: Blade of Steel