For a complete game recap: Habs Fail to Sustain Start

Players to watch

• Brendan Gallagher
  Gallagher may have six points in six games but they came in a pair of games. He knows that he needs to play better. In his last game Gallagher only had two shots on goal with no hits. Gallagher knows he leads by example and if he’s not getting his chances he has to be physical.
• Nick Cousins
  Byron has had a quiet start, playing mostly fourth line and special teams. He has yet to use his speed like we’ve seen in the past and something he’ll need to start doing to make a difference for the Habs.
• Brett Kulak
  Kulak has some chemistry with Jeff Petry but, given the state of the Habs defence, is playing in a role beyond his talent. A change is desperately needed as Victor Mete has struggled so far this season and there is no solution in sight for the top pair.

Keys to Victory

• Change lines smartly
  The Habs have been careless with line changes going back to last year. Poor changes result in odd man rushes and minor penalties. There is no excuse for these careless mistakes and the coaching staff must take responsibility.
• Be better in own zone
  Montreal’s defensive coverage has been lacking. Given the holes on defence, it will be necessary for forwards to help out. Failure to get the puck out early and disrupt the forecheck has led to long shifts resulting in goals against.
• Play smart
  The Canadiens need to keep it simple and make smart plays more often. Preventable mistakes are multiplying leading to breakdowns.