GAME DAY PREVIEW | Montreal Canadiens vs Florida Panthers: Preview, TV, Start Time, Statistical Match-up, Projected Lines, Starting Goalies, Keys to Victory, Habs Tickets

A Look Back

The Habs ended their losing streak in a back and forth match with the Rangers ‘B’ team. Montreal was able to take advantage of a Rangers team that rested several key players for their upcoming playoff run. Jeff Petry made the most of the opportunity and played one of his best games of the season scoring twice including the game winner.

Last game: MTL 4  NYR 3  F

For a complete game recap: Petry Scores Twice | RECAP: MTL @ NYR

Players to Watch

• Jeff Petry
  In what is likely to be his last game as a member of the Habs, Petry has an encore to perform after showing his Norris-like effort last game. It will be bitter sweet to move on from such a quality defenceman but the Habs should get a great return in any deal.
• Brendan Gallagher
  Gallagher has had a career worst season, and the soon to be thirty year-old has five more years on his deal. The once fan favorite has become an expensive liability for the Habs and a tough decision could be made this off season. The bottom line: Gallagher needs to do everything he can to stay healthy.
• Alexander Romanov
  The most reliable player for the Habs this season on the backend will be needing a new contract this offseason. This is an important deal for both sides as the Habs have several left shot defensemen in the system but none that can play at the caliber of Romanov. It will be interesting to see the terms of the extension.

Keys to Victory

• Skate hard
  The Habs have to finish the season strong and can’t afford to stop skating or they will get caught.
• Play for the fans
  The game doesn’t matter but the fans have suffered through a tough season and the Habs need to give them something to enjoy and cheer about.
• Be creative
  The Habs lack a lot of offensive play making and it is often one dimensional, something that will be focused in the off season. A few bubble players for the roster next season have one last game to show what they can do.

2021-22  statistics

• “I think we should find a way to put in a good effort in our last game. We will be in front of our fans and we will want to end the season on a high note.”

Bottom Line