MONTREAL -
MONTREAL - News of the sale of the Montreal Canadiens had people buzzing on downtown streets Saturday night.
Most of those interviewed were glad the team has been bought by Geoff, Andrew and Justin Molson instead of a consortium led by Quebecor.
"It's the best thing for the team," said Montreal resident Jean-Claude Corsilli, 32, who was wearing a Canadiens cap.
"I'm happy they got it instead of Quebecor. They already own everything."
Montreal's Danny Derocher, 40, who was walking with his two sons, agreed.
"I think they have more interest in the team than the Quebecor group," said Derocher, who was wearing a Canadiens T-shirt.
"I think this is better for the team."
Others noted that the Canadiens have had good history with the Molson family, dating back to 1957.
"The Molsons have been here in Montreal at least 150 years," said Stevens Joseph, 26, a Montreal East resident.
"I think they are the best group for the Canadiens, and I'm certain that they will stay in Montreal. I think Quebecor would be in it more for profit, and they would hike the price of tickets."
But not everyone was happy with the sale. Sebastien Leroux, 28, said he would have preferred French-speaking owners.
"Montreal is a French city, so the Cana-diens should be owned by a francophone group," Leroux said. "But any owner that would keep the team in Montreal would be a good owner."
Victoriaville, Que., resident Jenita Jusic, 21, said she hopes the change of ownership will improve the team's fortunes.
"Maybe they'll be more motivated with a new owner and a new coach," she said. "We can only hope that they will be more motivated after this season."
Aftab Khan, 36, who was visiting from the northern Quebec town of Inukjuak, said he doesn't care who owns the team. "As long as it stays in Montreal," he said.
