The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as the Montreal Canadiens host the Ottawa Senators in a critical matchup tonight at 7 PM ET. With only 16 games remaining in the regular season, this game is vital for both teams as they vie for playoff positions in the NHL's competitive Eastern Conference.
The stakes couldn't be higher for the Canadiens (32-27-7), who find themselves one point behind the New York Rangers—currently holding the last Wild Card spot. The Canadiens also have two games in hand over the Rangers, making tonight’s game all the more crucial if they wish to secure a playoff berth.
The Senators (36-25-5) are feeling confident, riding a six-game winning streak, and looking to maintain their place atop the Wild Card standings, sitting five points ahead of New York. This matchup marks the third of four meetings between these two teams this season, with Montreal having prevailed in both previous outings—winning 4-1 on October 12 and 5-2 in late February. Ottawa will have its work cut out for them as they aim to put an end to the Canadiens' dominance in this rivalry.
The excitement is palpable as fans consider both teams’ recent performances. The Canadiens are 7-2-1 in their last ten games, showcasing their resilience and in-game adaptability. After a strong 3-1 victory over the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, the Canadiens are well positioned to capitalize on their home advantage.
Senators captain Brady Tkachuk expressed confidence heading into tonight’s game, stating, "We feel confident heading into this game, and we know what’s at stake." The Senators will rely on strong performances from players like Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, and Claude Giroux as they look to build on their winning streak. Tkachuk has been particularly hot, having already scored six goals in March.
On the other hand, Canadiens' captain Nick Suzuki remarked, "Every game counts now, and we have to take advantage of our chances." Suzuki has been an essential asset for Montreal, leading the team with 69 points in 66 games. Alongside Cole Caufield, who has racked up 33 goals this season, these players are central to the Canadiens’ offensive strategy.
In terms of lineup changes, Canadiens' young defenseman Kaiden Guhle is progressing as he’s seen skating in a no-contact jersey at practice, yet he remains unavailable for tonight’s clash. Conversely, Senators defenseman Nick Jensen will miss his second consecutive game due to a lower-body injury, further impacting Ottawa’s blue line.
Goaltending will be critical tonight, with Samuel Montembeault starting for the Canadiens. His recent performance has garnered attention, especially after his return to the ice post-4 Nations Faceoff. He has become a formidable figure for Montreal, and the team will look to him to fend off the Senators’ strong attack. For Ottawa, Linus Ullmark will be in net, facing the Canadiens for the sixth consecutive time against an Original Six opponent this season—an impressive feat that could soon see him achieve an Original Six sweep.
Ottawa has acquired notable talents like Dylan Cozens and Fabian Zetterlund ahead of the trade deadline to elevate their offensive game. The Senators will need contributions from these new faces if they wish to challenge the Habs and avoid a third loss this season against them.
As the puck prepares to drop, lineups are set to feature key players like Senators’ Tkachuk, Stutzle, Giroux and Canadiens’ Suzuki and Caufield. The atmosphere in Montreal promises to be electric, buoyed by two teams eager to push for a playoff spot, revitalizing this storied rivalry.
Fans tuning in can catch the game on various platforms, including TSN2 and RDS in Canada. Whether you're cheering for the Canadiens or the Senators, expect a hard-fought game as both teams battle it out for crucial points as the playoffs loom on the horizon.
Tonight's faceoff is more than just a meeting; it could very well shape the playoff landscape as we head down the stretch of the NHL season. Tune in to witness the intensity of this battle unfold.
