The Montreal Canadiens are at the end of their road trip and desperately need a win Friday night against the Anaheim Ducks.
Before the Montreal Canadiens flew west, a common opinion was the worst thing they could do is return with seven losses on their record. It’s the final game of this road trip and the Habs have lost two of them.
At this point there’s no more room for overused lines or Disney style speeches. Montreal just needs to win this game in Anaheim because the window of, “it’s still early”, is closing faster than we think. They need to have some kind of response, and whatever it is, I personally hope it’s filled with anger. Anything to spark the team would do wonders whether it’s a hit or a carefully placed tap (because you don’t want to get a penalty).
There won’t be any changes to the lineup meaning Alex Galchenyuk will remain on the top line. Max Pacioretty has admitted that he’s been one of the worst players on the ice. He needs to step his game up here. Being a leader in the room is one thing, but you have to answer the call once the puck drops.
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The new third line with Paul Byron, Phillip Danault and Andrew Shaw had the most energy last game. They were also the only line to score. Hopefully they continue to generate more chances for the team.
Carey Price will also be looking to make a comeback as he’ll get the start. You can’t hang the bulk of this slump on his shoulders, but he’s admitted that he can improve. It all depends on whether the defensive errors can be kept to a minimum.
Jordie Benn is getting another look on the bottom pair with Joseph Morrow. These two have looked anything but reliable for the Montreal Canadiens. It’ll be interesting to see if either of them can turn things around.
Anaheim is missing a lot key pieces from injuries. Ryan Getzlaf, Ryan Kesler, Patrick Eaves, Hampus Lindholm and Sami Vatanen will all not be playing. The Ducks haven’t seen any action for the past four days, but with so many omissions from their lineup, the Habs have every opportunity to pull out a win. Pop in that game cartridge because the Montreal Canadiens should be ready to play some Duck Hunt.
Next: Adding Patrick Roy to Management
How do you think the game will end? Will the Montreal Canadiens return 1-6-1? Let us know your predictions in the comments or on Twitter.