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

A Look Back

The Habs were shut down for the past week as a result of two Canadiens players being in the league’s COVID protocols. As of now, Joel Armia remains on the list. During the past week the Habs acquired veteran centre Eric Staal. It is a great depth move that could see Staal provide leadership for the Habs young centres. Tyler Toffoli is out and  will likely be back by the end of the week. Ben Chariot could be back from his broken hand sooner rather than expected.

Last game: MTL 5  VAN  4  F/SO

For a complete game recap: Canucks @ Canadiens: Tatar, Price Shootout Heroes

Players to Watch

• Shea Weber 
  The Habs upcoming schedule is going to be unkind to the entire team but with Ben Chiarot’s injury, the Canadiens will have to lean on Weber more than ever.
• Nick Suzuki
  Suzuki has 20 points in 31 games this season so far following last season’s finish of 41 points. Projected over 82 games, Suzuki is on a similar pace. The sophomore slump is something to be concerned about but he seems to be handling the challenge well.
• Michael Frolik
  The long awaited debut for depth winger Frolik has finally come. Frolik has been on his own for a majority of the season and plans to make this game count to stay in the lineup for the rest of the season.

Keys to Victory

• Get off to a quick start
  After a week off the Habs are playing a hot Oilers team and will want a really quick start to get settled early in the game.
• Use depth
  With a few injuries to key players, the Habs depth will be tested. It will be key for players to step up and make the most of their opportunities.
• Win special teams
  The power-play has been good for the Habs this season and will be needed as they strive for a playoff spot. The penalty-kill needs improvement.  

2020-21 statistics

• “It’s been hard. It’s been tough. I tried to keep getting ready. I waited a little longer than I wished, but tonight I’m going to be in. I think I’m ready. Everything that happened last week didn’t help much, but we had two practices and I felt good out there. I’ve been waiting for this chance, so hopefully it’s going to go well.”

Bottom Line

A rested Carey Price will get the start and needs to be the Price we have been blessed with the last several seasons for the Habs to get through this tough schedule.