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

A Look Back

It was a great all-around performance by the Habs that saw them in control the whole game. The Habs got off to a great start with two power-play goals and didn’t look back. Two late goals by the Flames made the game look a lot closer than it was but the Habs played a great game. Shea Weber blasted his second of the season but this time it was his patented slapshot from the point.

Last game: MTL 4  CGY 2

For a complete game recap: Flames @ Canadiens: Special Teams Dominate 

Players to Watch

• Corey Perry
  Since entering the line up Perry has been exceptional. With a point in each game he will make it a hard decision to remove him from the lineup. His skill in-front of the net is one of the best in the league and has become a big part of the Habs power play.
• Jake Allen
  Allen will make his third start for the Habs. It’s rare to see Price get a Saturday night off but Allen has played well and the coaching staff will stick to their goaltending schedule.
• Phillip Danault
  Danault has three points in seven games and is no longer the primary defensive forward on the penalty-kill. Danault’s numbers are lower than they should be playing on the Canadiens’ top line with two of the Habs best wingers. Danault has reportedly asked for a big contract but if he can’t find the back of the net consistently the Habs may be best to make a move.

Keys to Victory

• Repeat the effort
  The Habs played a great first game against the Flames. Having lost three in a row, expect Calgary to come out strong. An even better performance will be required tonight from the Habs.
• Execute transition game
  The transition game of the Habs is a big reason they have yet to lose in regulation. Their speed excels in transition and is something they need to focus on to keep their winning streak alive.
• Win special teams
  Not to often are the Habs going to score three special teams goals but Montreal is mucg improved in that department from last season and hope that it will become a dependable part of their game.

2020-21 statistics

• “We have to minimize the amount of errors we make and keep the rhythm on our side. We’re going to play against a very hungry team tonight. It’s a team with a lot of character. It’s a good hockey team. They’ve lost a few games in a row, so they’ll want to rebound. We have to be able to manage the situation in a positive way. We have to be ready to play a big game and battle for loose pucks. I think the will of the team will play a key role tonight.”

Bottom Line

A tight Canadian division battle will come down to the wire but you can expect a big effort from the Flames.