The Toronto Maple Leafs are the final opponent for the Montreal Canadiens in a game which should be heated regardless of the difference in direction.
Although the Montreal Canadiens had a rough preseason and a mediocre start to the year, despite winning their first game, there was still a lot of optimism. However, the truth of what this season could turn into started to come out more after their loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. It was a game, who many thought, was somewhat of a must-win based on the historical implications of it.
The Habs had a 14-game winning streak over the Leafs at the time, but unfortunately, that came to an end. It was a close game, and Toronto came out with a 4-3 win in overtime. It added a little more of a spark to the dressing room even though Montreal lost. Fast forward to the next matches between the two teams, and the results were completely different.
A pair of 6-0 and 4-0 losses sunk the Habs even lower to the point where hearing that this is the final game of the season is a relief for some fans.
The positive note going into this game is that it will be exciting. Brendan Gallagher reminded the media yesterday after practice that it’s a privilege to play in the NHL and games shouldn’t be wasted.
"We’re going to prepare the same. We’re going to come and do the things we need to do and try to win a hockey game. That’s really our only focus."
The Montreal Canadiens are a frustrated group, it’s a rivalry matchup, and it’s Hockey Night in Canada. There’s no way this game is anything less than a fun time for either team.
Montreal is walking into the Air Canada Centre after a 4-3 win over the Detroit Red Wings. Nicolas Deslauriers found the back of the net twice while Gallagher and Artturi Lehkonen are continuing to build on their scoring totals.
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Charles Hudon and David Schlemko will most likely miss the final game after their absence from team practice. The rookie apparently injured himself ahead of practice while the veteran was given a therapy day.
If anyone is going to be energized for this game, it’s going to be Kerby Rychel. The 23-year-old was part of the Leafs organization for nearly two years but never got a look with the main club. He’ll be looking to show them what they could’ve had and at the same time, build on the impact he’s already made with the Montreal Canadiens.
Toronto is coming off a night of sending the New Jersey Devils to the playoffs for the first time since 2012. The team lost 2-1 and were outplayed for many moments of the game which isn’t a good look for them as they’re trying to build momentum heading into their opening series. It isn’t a meaningless game for the Leafs, even though they’ve already clinched a playoff spot.
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The Habs will have to fend off the speed and skill the Leafs have in their arsenal. Win or lose, fans want a good game, and they’ll be there in bulk even though its an away game for the Montreal Canadiens. Give us something to remember!