GAME DAY | Canadiens – Wild: Preview, Prediction, Lines, Goalies, TV

The Habs won a wild one on Monday night against the Senators. Charles Hudon and Artturi Lehkonen both scored twice. Montreal took it to Ottawa defenceman Erik Karlsson who had had a game to forget, finishing with a minus-6.  

For a complete recap: Hudon, Lehkonen Spark Habs Offence

Players to watch

• Max Pacioretty
  Pacioretty has scored in back-to-back games. He is one of the streakiest scorers in the NHL. His recent change in playing style, by being hard on the forecheck and going to the net has rewarded him with his chances. 
• Luke Kunin
  Kunin, the Wild rookie winger, has four points this season. He was the lone goal scorer for the Wild in their last game. The Habs will need to make it difficult for him from the start
•  Carey Price
  This could be a statement game for Price. His team has finally provided offense in the past two games. It will be very important for the team to begin playing much better in front of him.
•  Devan Dubnyk
  Dubnyk hasn’t had a great start to the season. As a former Canadien, expect him to up his game. If the Habs can get one or two goals by him early, his confidence might be shaken.

Keys to Victory

• Keep it Going
  The Habs are on a roll offensively and will want to keep it going.
• Defense
  While the Canadiens have been scoring, they have also been allowing far too many high-quality scoring chances and goals. Being solid defensively will be a focus point of this game.
• Forecheck
  The Montreal forecheck has been relentless of late and caused havoc against the Senators. Getting on the Wild will result in chances for the Habs early in the game that they will want to convert.

Prediction: Canadiens 5  Wild 1

As the Canadiens look to make it three wins in a row, the first period will be an important one. The best prepared team will take it. Carey Price will be a big factor early in the game.