Canadiens' break in schedule came at the worst time

The Montreal Canadiens had finally figured out their issues from earlier in the season. Their defense looked much better as the players became better adapted to the hybrid system. The first of their three wins in four games run wasn't a defensive clinic, as they outscored the Buffalo Sabres 7-5 for the victory. However, their back-to-back wins against the Columbus Blue Jackets and Edmonton Oilers gave cause for celebration.

Samuel Montembeault was massive for the Canadiens with the 30-save shutout against the Oilers, but the team defense could shut down Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, which turned some heads amongst the fanbase. When looking at the standings and the imminent return of Patrik Laine, the Canadiens aren't as far out of playoff contention as people want you to think.

The break has put the Habs behind the teams in front of them in terms of games played. The Boston Bruins and Buffalo Sabres are tied for the last wildcard with 21 points. The Bruins played 21 games, while the Sabres played 20. The Canadiens are just five points behind with 19 games played and could make the gap even closer with an upset victory against the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday night.

The issue is that the Canadiens were building momentum they hadn't had all season. They had won three of four games, Montembeault was getting hot, the offense was clicking, and their team defense was finally figuring it out. Unfortunately, the schedule makers gave the Canadiens a five-day break between Monday's game and tonight's, which could've killed all the Habs' momentum and put them back on the wrong foot.

They also won't get any breaks with who they play in the game. Vegas won't be too happy with their recent form, as they've lost two of their last three games, and the lone win was a close call with the Ottawa Senators. The Golden Knights haven't played great hockey since their hot start to the year, but they are still in first place in the Pacific Division.

The Golden Knights will show up for this game with plenty of motivation. The Canadiens must prove they can give a professional effort after their long break this week, and start on time. If they don't, all their success last week will be for naught.