Date: February 9, 2025

Time: 1:00 PM EST

Location: Bell Centre, Montreal, QC

 

Recent Performance

Montreal Canadiens (25-26-4): The Canadiens are coming off a 4-0 loss to the New Jersey Devils on February 8th, where they managed 34 shots on goal but couldn’t find the back of the net. This defeat marked their second consecutive loss, following a 6-3 setback against the Los Angeles Kings on February 6th. Over their last five games, Montreal has posted a 1-4-0 record, struggling both offensively and defensively. The team is averaging 2.87 goals per game (17th in the NHL) while allowing 3.44 goals against per game (28th in the NHL). Their power play operates at 20.4% (20th in the NHL), and their penalty kill stands at 82.2% (7th in the NHL).

 

Tampa Bay Lightning (30-20-4): The Lightning secured a 6-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings on February 8th, with Brandon Hagel contributing two goals and two assists. This win extended their current winning streak to three games, including a 5-1 triumph over the Ottawa Senators on February 6th. In their last five outings, Tampa Bay has a 4-1-0 record, showcasing a potent offense that averages 3.54 goals per game (3rd in the NHL) and a defense allowing 2.76 goals against per game (9th in the NHL). Their power play is effective at 26.5% (5th in the NHL), and their penalty kill is at 81.2% (10th in the NHL).

 

Team Records and Trends

Montreal Canadiens

• Overall Record: 25-26-4
• Home Record: 13-11-4
• Power Play: 26.5% (5th in the NHL)
• Penalty Kill: 82.2% (7th in the NHL)
• Last 10 Games: 3-6-1

Tampa Bay Lightning

• Overall Record: 30-20-4
• Road Record: 12-13-2
• Power Play: 26.5% (5th in the NHL)
• Penalty Kill: 81.2% (10th in the NHL)
• Last 10 Games: 5-4-1

 

Key Players to Watch

Montreal Canadiens

• Nick Suzuki: Leading the team with 15 goals and 37 assists, Suzuki’s playmaking abilities are crucial for Montreal’s offense. His vision and ability to set up teammates make him a constant threat.
• Cole Caufield: A dynamic scorer, Caufield’s quick release and accuracy have been highlights of Montreal’s season. His ability to find open spaces and capitalize on scoring opportunities will be essential against Tampa Bay.

 

Tampa Bay Lightning

• Brandon Hagel: Coming off a four-point game against Detroit, Hagel has been a significant contributor to the Lightning’s recent success. His offensive versatility and ability to play in various situations make him a player to watch.
• Nikita Kucherov: A consistent offensive force, Kucherov’s scoring and playmaking skills are pivotal for Tampa Bay. His experience and ability to perform in high-pressure situations provide the Lightning with a significant advantage.

 

Injury Report

Montreal Canadiens

• Kaiden Guhle (D): Out with a lacerated quadriceps muscle.
• Emil Heineman (LW): On injured reserve due to an upper-body injury.

 

Tampa Bay Lightning

• Jonas Johansson (G): Out with a lower-body injury.
• Janis Moser (D): On injured reserve due to a lower-body injury.

 

Goaltending Matchup

Montreal Canadiens

• Jakub Dobes: The 23-year-old rookie has been confirmed as the starter for this game. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 215 pounds, Dobes has a record of 5-2-1 this season, with a goals-against average of 2.10 and a save percentage of .927

 

Tampa Bay Lightning

• Andrei Vasilevskiy: Vasilevskiy has not been confirmed as the starter for this game at the time of writing but if he starts, he holds a record of 24-15-3 with a goals against average of 2.30 and a .918 save percentage , including three shutouts. With the back to back spot we may even see Brandon Halverson get his 2nd ever NHL start, we will have to wait and see.

 

Game Outlook

The Montreal Canadiens aim to rebound from recent losses and leverage their home-ice advantage against the surging Tampa Bay Lightning. The Lightning, riding a three-game winning streak, will look to continue their offensive dominance. The performance of both teams’ goaltenders and special teams will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this contest.

 

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