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

A Look Back

The game looked to be going exactly as expected as the Habs found themselves down 2-0 early to a far better team. However, the Habs battled back. Rem Pitlick was the hero in overtime beating the Leafs netminder cleanly. It was an inspiring win as the depleted Habs didn’t give up once down giving the fans something to cheer about.

Last game: MTL 3  TOR 2  F/OT

For a complete game recap: Habs Shock Leafs | RECAP: TOR @ MTL

Players to Watch

• Rem Pitlick
  The hero of last game should get a long stint in the NHL as the Habs are beat up. Pitlick is no stranger to the NHL and has the offensive talent for it, but it is his defensive game that has him put in the minors. Pitlick cheats on offense and is an extremely high risk – high reward type of player.
• Mike Matheson
  There has been an unexpected edge in Matheson’s game since he has returned to the lineup. The veteran defenceman at 28 hasn’t had the warm welcoming season as a member of the Habs but this season has been hard on many. The remainder of the season should be a real look at the type of player Matheson will be for the next few years..
• Sam Montembeault
  The Habs are winning games they shouldn’t. Montembeault has been tested often and has started to show his true potential. There are still bad goals he needs to clean up and bad games but he is giving his team a chance at winning more often than not.

Keys to Victory

• Stay determined
  After being down, the Habs played a very determined game to get back in it which is exactly what they will need to do against an experienced Bruins team who sit at the top of the standings.
• Execute the plan
  If the Habs are not careful the Bruins are going to show why they are the top team in the league. The Habs have to execute their game plan in all three ends of the ice.
• Use speed
  The Bruins come in waves and the Habs have to be ready. Using their speed will be key to survive against the league’s top team.

2022-23  statistics

• “It’s been tough being out of the lineup and missing a lot of games at the beginning of the season. Now, I have an opportunity to catch my stride. I’ve played the most minutes I’ve played in my NHL career the past three games in a row and it’s a lot more fun when you’re playing more and helping the team win.”

Bottom Line