Josh Gorges

Undrafted Josh Gorges was signed as a free agent by the San Jose Sharks in 2002. During this time Gorges was in the midst of playing junior hockey with the Kelowna Rockets of the WHL. Seeing how Josh Gorges is from Kelowna BC he has a deep connection with the Rockets. In 2004 Gorges lead the Kelowna Rockets to a Memorial Cup Championship as their team Captain. Josh Gorges played for Kelowna from 2000-2001 to 2003-2004.

Gorges moved up to the AHL playing 20 games for the Cleveland Barons, San Jose's farm team, during the 2004-2005 season. When the NHL resumed play for the 2005-2006 season Josh Gorges spent time with the San Jose Sharks and Cleveland Barons. In 2007 he was traded to the Canadiens along with a 2007 first round pick for Craig Rivet and a 2008 fifth round pick. The Canadiens won that trade because Josh Gorges turned into a phenomenal hockey player and with the Canadiens' first round draft pick they drafted Max Pacioretty, a prospect with lots of potential.  San Jose ended up ridding themselves of Craig Rivet soon after the trade.

Josh Gorges plays a defensively sound game and rarely gets involved in the offensive swing of things. He is a valuable asset on the penalty kill, risking his body in the way of shots whenever possible. He is a solid puck handler and makes wise decisions with the puck. Though not as talented as others Gorges has developed into a smart hard working player.

Josh Gorges is a calm and encouraging person who is loved by his team. This combined with his work ethic made him an excellent candidate for team captain during the 2010 off-season. He complements Hal Gill as a defensive partner very well, often bailing Hal out when he is caught out of position. The Gorges-Gill duo combine to create one of the best penalty killing units in the NHL.

Some of Gorges' many strengths include his strong work ethic. On top of this he has a positive attitude that does not go unnoticed. What Gorges lacks in size he makes up with his discrete and efficient abilities.

A weakness of Josh Gorges is his breakout abilities and his first pass which can be improved.

Gorges' nickname around the locker room is Josh "THE BOSS" Gorges. He is good friends with teammate Carey Price. During the 2009-2010 season Gorges was hit in the back of the head by Washington's Mike Green and was knocked unconscious. Pierre Mcguire nearly had a heart attack and thought he was dead. Josh Gorges set the Cleveland Baron's record for fastest goal from the start of a game at 20 seconds. You will usually see Josh Gorges make a cross every time he steps onto the ice.