As two struggling teams prepare to face off, fans anticipate an exciting evening at the Bell Centre. The Montreal Canadiens have lost five consecutive games and secured only one win in their last eight. On the opposite side, the Toronto Maple Leafs have also been underperforming, winning just one of their last six matchups.
Preview: Canadiens vs. Maple Leafs
The Canadiens are seeking to turn their luck around. Head coach Martin St-Louis expressed confidence in his team, stating the players know what they are capable of achieving despite recent obstacles. He noted the need to return to the simplicity that has been lacking in their play.
Jakub Dobes Takes the Lead
In tonight’s match, Jakub Dobes will start as the goalie for the Canadiens. St-Louis acknowledged that while recent shortcomings can’t be pinned solely on the goaltending, both Dobes and Samuel Montembeault have struggled to help the team defensively. The Canadiens have allowed four or more goals in six out of their last eight games.
Evans and Xhekaj in Action
- Jake Evans is set to play after a concerning hit from Tom Wilson during a previous match against the Washington Capitals.
- Evans initially returned to the game but opted to stop after the second period for safety reasons.
- Florian Xhekaj will debut in the NHL, filling the left-wing position alongside Evans.
Xhekaj expressed his excitement and nerves about stepping onto the NHL stage, focusing on remaining calm and concentrated as he takes to the ice for the first time.
Leafs’ Injury Concerns
The Maple Leafs find themselves near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, with a record of 9-9-3. They have struggled on the road, winning only one of their last six away games. They will miss star player Auston Matthews due to injury, which could present an opportunity for the Canadiens.
Despite their challenges, the Leafs have a strong offensive record, averaging 3.43 goals per game, which ranks fourth in the league. Veteran John Tavares is a key contributor, boasting 12 goals and 27 points in 21 games this season. Matthews has been sidelined since November 11 with a lower-body injury, while Matthew Knies has also missed time for similar reasons.
The Return of Samuel Blais
Samuel Blais is back on the ice, replacing Jacob Quillan in the lineup. Blais last played in a narrow 3-2 overtime loss against the Columbus Blue Jackets and is eager to perform against the team that placed him on waivers earlier this season.
As both teams aim to reverse their fortunes, tonight’s matchup promises to be pivotal in re-establishing confidence and momentum moving forward.
