Scott Gomez is definitely done as a Hab.

But the NHL and the players' union have come up with an agreement on players like Gomez, who are being forced to stay home for salary cap reasons this season.

Reports are suggesting that under the terms of the agreement, players are now eligible to get what's called an "accelerated complicance buyout" before the regular season begins on Saturday.

That means while teams would still be forced to have the salaries of Gomez and the New York Rangers' Wade Redden count against the salary cap this season, they wouldn't take the cap hit next season after their contracts are bought out.

The players would also get a chance to sign elsewhere. Tomorrow, if somebody wanted them.

The NHLPA had threatened action over Gomez being forced to stay at home while receiving their full pay. Under the rules as they stand now, if Gomez were to get injured this season, the Canadiens would not be able to buy out the rest of his contract next season.

Photo: La Presse