History of Montreal Canadiens Outdoor Games

The Montreal Canadiens have been a major part of outdoor games in the NHL, but they've only been in one Winter Classic. However, they have been in two Heritage Classics and a special 100th Anniversary Game. The Canadiens haven't hosted an outdoor game, but you have to believe that it's something that has to be coming soon. The home of the Montreal Alouettes only hosts 23,035 people, so a lack of attendance could be a concern. Nevertheless, let's look at the four games the Canadiens have taken outdoors.

Heritage Classic 2011 - Montreal Canadiens vs. Calgary Flames

It took eight years for the Heritage Classic to return to the NHL. The Flames hosted the Canadiens at McMahon Stadium in front of 41,022 fans, and they shut out the Canadiens 4-0. It wasn't a good night for the Canadiens, but the wind chill of -21 degrees celsius made for a memorable night nonetheless.

Winter Classic 2016 - Montreal Canadiens vs. Boston Bruins

The NHL geared the Winter Classic more towards American teams. The Toronto Maple Leafs were the first Canadian team to play when they visitied Michigan Stadium in 2014, but the next logical matchup was the Canadiens and Bruins. The Bruins hosted the Canadiens at Gilette Stadium, which the Canadiens won 5-1.

David Desharnais opened the scoring in the first period, and then Paul Byron and Brendan Gallagher added to the lead. Max Pacioretty and Paul Byron sealed the 5-1 victory in the third. Mike Condon was the second star with a 27-save performance.

NHL 100 Classic - Montreal Canadiens vs. Ottawa Senators

The Canadiens and Senators had a special matchup for the NHL's 100th anniversary on December 16, 2017. The game occurred at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, with the Senators shutting out the Canadiens 3-0. In an outcome that makes a ton of sense in Canadiens history, Carey Price had 35 saves but his teammates gave him no goal support.