Montreal Canadiens: The biggest threat moving forward

The Montreal Canadiens are in a playoff spot, and they’ll be in a battle to keep it. However, there’s one team who they should worry about the most.

Going from being a bottom-feeder to the bubble, to a divisional spot wasn’t an easy one. It took patience, resilience, and most importantly, the return of Carey Price for the Montreal Canadiens to get to where they are now. I know it’s weird that I’m talking about them getting a playoff spot like it’s the end of the year, but it’s something the team should be proud of.

Ironically, getting to third place in the Atlantic Division was not even close to being the hardest part. The same thing happens in everyday life. Obtaining something is easy while working to keep it is more difficult. That’s the position the Habs find themselves in now and for however long they stay in that position.

The chances of Montreal being able to overtake Tampa Bay or Toronto are pretty slim. There’s always the possibility that either team goes on a one or two-week slump, but that’s wishful thinking. If the Habs are one of the eight teams in the East to make the playoffs, it’s most likely going to be from where they are now. And this is where the battle begins for them.

Other teams are still in the running. The Ottawa Senators are 2-7-1 in their last 10 games, but they’re playing a lot worse than expected. Perhaps they heat up as the season gets older. It’s doubtful, but Detroit could be another team in the fight.

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No team is a greater threat to the Montreal Canadiens playoff chances than the Boston Bruins though. I guess it works out perfectly that way doesn’t it? Divisional rival, historical rival, playoff rival, you name it.

Boston is one point behind the Habs with 28. The threat is that they have four games in hand against Montreal which could be a real pain as the season continues. Additionally, it makes any game against the Bruins must wins.

The Habs face the Bruins three times in January (13th, 17th, and 20th) and once in March (the 3rd). Those four games could be a big decider in the ‘Battle for Third in the Atlantic’. Considering Boston isn’t playing nearly as bad as the Sens or the Red Wings, continuing this level of play will be important for Montreal. A pair of losses here or there may be ok to tank, but they can’t afford another slump like before.

Get ready Habs fans, the rest of the season is going to be emotional, stressful, but a lot of fun. Are you ready?

Next: The Answer WAS in the Room

How confident are you in the Montreal Canadiens? Could they possibly overtake Toronto or Tampa Bay? Let us know your thoughts down below.