The Canadiens dropped the first game of their California road trip on Tuesday night in San Jose. It was a penalty-filled affair with the Habs suffering from an inconsistent effort. The Kings are off to a great start this season and will present a tough challenge. 

For a complete recap: Canadiens – Sharks: San Jose Extends Streak vs Habs

Players to watch

• Max Pacioretty
  Like all members of the Canadiens roster, Pacioretty has had difficulty scoring with just one goal this season. The chemistry referenced so often in the off-season with linemate Jonathan Drouin seems non existent. As the captain of this team, expect  Pacioretty to step up. providing leadership after a dismal effort by the team in San Jose.
• Anze Kopitar
  Kopitar is off to a strong start with eight points in five games. 2016-17 was a season to forget for Kopitar and the Kings. They have turned things around this year. Playing with confidence, it will be a challenge for the Habs to shut him down.
•  Drew Doughty
  Expect Doughty to continue his hot start against the Habs. His combination of skill and physicality will give Montreal all they can handle.
• Charles Hudon
  Hudon has been knocking at the door each game but has yet to score his fist NHL goal. Hudon has taken a team high 24 shots on goal but has had defensive issues in his own zone. There’s no doubt that coach Julien took notice of two bad penalties taken by Hudon on Tuesday night.
• Al Montoya
  Montoya will get his first start of the season and will in tough against the Kings. It’s important for Montoya to have a good first period and for his team to get out to an early lead.

Keys to Victory

• Protect the crease
  The Habs have been allowing the opposition into the blue paint, bumping Price  without consequences. It will be important for the Habs to let the Kings know that the crease is a no go zone particularly with Montoya in goal.
• First on pucks
  The Canadiens need to start winning more puck battles. Being first to the puck with help them control possession.
• Stay out of the box
  The Canadiens have had issues with discipline and have struggled on the penalty-kill. It’s best to limit penalties against the Kings.

2016-17 statistics

Prediction

For the Habs to come away with the victory, they will to slow down the Kings and have a couple bounces go their way.

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