The Montreal Canadiens are set to face the Anaheim Ducks tonight at 8:30 PM, with the lineup featuring key player Arber Xhekaj returning to the team. After a trade deadline filled with speculation, the Canadiens shift their focus back to the ice. Led by head coach Martin St-Louis, the Canadiens continue their California road trip with this match against the Ducks.
Match Overview
As the Canadiens prepare for the showdown, they aim to improve on their current season record of 33 wins, 18 losses, and 9 overtime losses. The Ducks, with a record of 34 wins, 24 losses, and 3 overtime losses, are also looking to make an impact in this game.
Recent Performance
- Canadiens average goals per game: 3.25 (13th in the league)
- Ducks average goals per game: 3.27 (24th in the league)
- Canadiens goals allowed per game: 3.48 (30th in the league)
- Ducks goals allowed per game: Statistics pending
- Canadiens power play percentage: 24.7% (7th in the league)
- Ducks power play percentage: 18.2% (23rd in the league)
- Canadiens penalty kill percentage: 76.5% (27th in the league)
- Ducks penalty kill percentage: 77.3% (23rd in the league)
Player Updates
Arber Xhekaj’s return adds depth to the Canadiens’ defensive lineup, while Jayden Struble steps out. Samuel Montembeault will start in goal for the Canadiens. Juraj Slafkovsky re-joins the first line alongside Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, aiming to create scoring opportunities following a brief absence.
Alex Newhook takes Slafkovsky’s previous position on the second line with Oliver Kapanen and Ivan Demidov. Kirby Dach, who faced challenges in the last game against the San Jose Sharks, is expected to play on the third line.
Game Expectations
Coaching staff reported that the trade deadline did not disrupt their preparations. Despite the trade activities, St-Louis continued to focus on the upcoming match dynamics. The Ducks acquired defenseman John Carlson just before the deadline; however, he will not be available for tonight’s game. Expect Lukas Dostal to be in goal for the Ducks.
Following this match, the Canadiens will head to Los Angeles to face the Kings on Saturday evening. Fans can follow the action between the Canadiens and the Ducks live on El-Balad.
