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

A Look Back

It was a hard fought battle for the Habs who played a competitive game against a strong Wild team. It took the Habs a period to settle into the game but costly mistakes ended up being the difference. Cole Caufield scored his fifth goal of the season while Mike Hoffman who had a chance to be the hero but failed on a penalty shot attempt.

Last game: MTL 1  MIN 3  F

For a complete game recap: Mistake-Filled Effort | RECAP: MIN @ MTL

Players to Watch

• Josh Anderson
  A change in the lines might benefit Anderson who’s off to a slow start this season. Anderson averages more than half a point a game but does so inconsistently. Finding a way for Anderson to be a consistent player in the NHL is what could change Anderson from being a good player to a great player.
• Johnathan Kovacevic
  Kovacevic has been very consistent for the Habs since being acquired on waivers. The defenceman has a big frame and is surprisingly mobile for his size. Kovacevic may  have made a bad mistake last game but he should continue to see action as he learns a new system on the fly.
• Sean Monahan
  Monahan is becoming more noticeable each game. It’s apparent that his hip issues in the past were holding him back. The Habs made a great deal to get Monahan. It should pay off again when the Habs deal Monahan at this year’s trade deadline.

Keys to Victory

• Start strong
  The Habs weren’t fully ready in the first last game and that can’t happen. With a young team the coaching staff needs to communicate a clear game plan to ensure that all members of the team bring their best game right from opening puck drop.
• Limit mistakes
  A couple bad plays for the Habs were enough for the Wild to take advantage. The Habs must play as much mistake-free hockey as possible if they are hoping to surprise some who think the Habs are the same team that finished last in 2021-’22.
• Win special teams
  The Habs power-play continues to struggle. The Habs have enough high-end talent that their power-play should be a top 10 one in the league.

2022-23  statistics

• “[Joel Edmundson] looks great on the ice. I’m sure he’s ready and excited to play. He will bring a lot of calm and confidence to our young group. Whenever we can get help, we take it. It’s exciting to see him back.”

Bottom Line