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

In a tight game, the Canadiens had tied the contest in the third period. With Jeff Petry serving a tripping penalty late in the game, Patrick Laine scored a power-play goal with just eight seconds remaining. It was a strong outing for Sam Montembeault with 40 saves, but the Habs struggled to score once again.

Last game: MTL 1  CBJ 2 F

For a complete game recap: A Costly Penalty | RECAP: CBJ @ MTL

Players to Watch

• Kale Clague
  The 23-year-old’s performances have been a mixed bag since being claimed off waivers on December 4th. While his puck-moving style has been a positive addition to the lineup, giveaways have been an issue for the defenceman including a team-high five turnovers against the Blue Jackets.
• Mike Hoffman
  Brought in to produce goals, Hoffman hasn’t been doing much of it, being scoreless in his last six games. Hoffman’s reputation was built on the power-play but hasn’t scored with the man advantage since January 13th against Chicago.
• Joel Armia
  Like many of the Canadiens, Armia did not flourish this season under Dom Ducharme recording six points through 35 games. However, since returning from COVID protocol, the 6-foot-4-inch winger has been a major physical presence on the fourth line creating space, along with Ryan Poehling, for Cole Caufield to flourish.

Keys to Victory

• Jump on loose pucks
  Canadiens have been generating more shots recently but must do a better job getting to loose pucks for second chance opportunities.
• Clean up the ‘D’ zone
  The Habs are making the adjustment to a man-to-man system in the defensive zone.  Key to success will be limiting turnovers and interrupting cross-ice passes to help out their goaltenders.
• Limit shifts
  Playing back-to-back matinees can take players out of their routines and may lead to fatigue. Effectively managing line changes by the assistant coaches will be an important factor to remain energized throughout 60 minutes.

2021-22  statistics

• “We were fighting, we were battling and, eventually, we broke through, not only with the goal, but we were creating really good opportunities, and we had a chance to win (Saturday.)”

Bottom Line