Let’s Dispel Some Montreal Canadiens Rumors
By Joshua Rosa
3. Montreal Does Not Match Well Against Colorado or Vegas
Let’s get one thing clear. Montreal did not match well against Toronto. Literally, every single expert predicted Toronto to win in 5 or 6 games, with one daring to say it would reach 7. Toronto would torch Montreal with their great offensive skill, and Jack Campbell and the upgraded defence would shut down Montreal’s paltry offence. Look at how well that turned out.
Montreal did not match up well against Winnipeg. They were able to hold off Toronto by shutting down the top line, but Winnipeg’s balanced attack should be able to pick holes in Montreal’s defence, especially on the third pairing. Toronto’s defence was good, but Winnipeg’s defence is good, and have the reigning Vezina winner in net. Once again, look at how that turned out.
Look at the two possibilities for Montreal in the next round. Colorado is loaded with top-end forward talent, but if they have question marks, it would be depth scoring, seldom shaky defence and questionable goalies. Does that not sound like a certain blue-and-white wearing team that bowed out in the first round.
When compared to Colorado, Vegas lacks the extreme high-end talent, but makes up for it with better depth, bigger and sturdier defence, and better goalies. Is that not similar to a high-flying team that got swept in the second round?
Either team that Montreal faced is a souped-up version of a team that they already beat. Colorado is a better Toronto, and Vegas is a better Winnipeg. Montreal already knows how to beat those types of teams.
Does that mean that Montreal will beat whichever of Vegas or Colorado? Not necessarily. It will still be an uphill battle and a struggle. But these Canadiens have beaten uphill battles and struggles before.
It may not be as lopsided as you think. When it comes to the final four, it can be anyone’s game. Everyone has earned their spot here, and anyone could make it to the final and win it all. The Habs have come too far for this to be a fluke. They earned this, let’s hope they earn a little bit more.