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

A Look Back

The Habs struggled against the Senators for the second time in a row but got the win this time. It was a key win for the Habs as dropping games against lower tier teams this season could easily cost them the division title or worse the playoffs. Jake Allen was once again sharp.

Last game: MTL 2  OTT 1  F

For a complete game recap: Canadiens @ Senators: Habs Duck Out of Ottawa

Players to Watch

• Josh Anderson
  Anderson is only three goals off the league lead and is on a three game goal streak. Anderson had two goals against the Maple Leafs last time they played and will look to be a force once again.
• Tyler Toffoli
  Toffoli is only two goals off the league lead however he has only scored once against a team that wasn’t Vancouver. His scoring depth will be key against offensive teams like the Leafs.
• Jeff Petry
  Chariot’s only minus game this season was against the Leafs when he was a minus-2. Chariot has backed away from being offensive and has chose to be a strong shut down defender who will look to make up for his last game.

Keys to Victory

• Start with energy
  The Habs have had a few days off since their last tame and should have more gas in the tank against the Leafs. A fast start with all four lines rolling is key for the Habs.
• Defend Matthews
  The league’s leading goal scorer should have a tough matchup as the Habs will match up their best defenders against him all game long.
• Use the depth
  If the Habs can shut down the Leafs top line, they have to take advantage of their depth. The Leafs are missing four players with injuries and the Habs out match them easily if all four lines are going. 

2020-21 statistics

• “We must be extremely disciplined, especially against Toronto and Edmonton. They’re capable of doing a lot of damage with the power play. We must capitalize on our power play chances to score some goals. They’re two teams who pretty much have the same identity. They have players who can skate well and move the puck. We have to limit their time and space because they can do damage offensively. We’ll definitely have to be disciplined, but we’ll also have to skate with them to take away their time and space.”

Bottom Line

Carey Price has played only twice in February which should make him as sharp as can be as he looks for win number five this season.