The New York Islanders are the Montreal Canadiens opponent, and it comes on the road.
The Islanders are always a team that gives a good match, with guys like Mat Barzal and Anders Lee leading the charge. Even though Matt Martin and Cal Clutterbuck are no longer there, the Isles are coached by Patrick Roy. They are bound to have some bite and the Long Island crowd is sure to be rocking with encouragement.
With some energy and grit needed to spark the Canadiens, one player comes to mind and that is Michael Pezzetta. If you need energy, and Brendan Gallagher isn't enough, then Pezzetta is a fair bet to add a spark. Not many guys are willing to fight Ryan Reaves, especially ones that aren't established as heavy NHL enforcers, but Pezzetta didn't get the memo.
It was more that he doesn't care, if the team needs him to do something, he is willing to do it to get the team feeling inspired. I also think that this could be a great way to get Arber Xhekaj back to his old ways. It doesn't have to be a fight, it could be, but a huge hit or some big heart plays could go a long way.
After #Habs lacklustre performance in 4-1 loss to Kings last night it would be good move to put Michael Pezzetta in lineup for first time this season against Islanders in New York Saturday night. He could provide a much-needed spark.
— Stu Cowan (@StuCowan1) October 18, 2024
No offense to Pezzetta but he isn't a skilled guy, perhaps he does something impressive things, but he brings energy and helps the team a different way. Physicality, speedy skating and smart plays will go a long way for the Canadiens. For that reason, I tend to agree with Montreal Gazette - Habs beat writer Stu Cowan, a much-needed sparked is what the club could use.
Pezzetta loves the spotlight
It doesn't get hotter than the spotlight in Montreal, the Bell Centre is a special rink and the fans bring it every night. But New York isn't somewhere that should be overlooked, it's a hockey hotbed also. That sounds like the perfect environment for Pezzetta to get the Canadiens' collective adrenaline pumping.
I can't lie, I have loved watching Lane Hutson carve up the ice, but the rest of the team looks a step behind. The top line hasn't exactly performed like they were expected to, although each of the trio has scored points. It felt like they might have taken another step, but the season is still young.
Kirby Dach and the second line have also been pretty lacklustre, I would go as far as saying they have been a disappointment. But chippy, physical and fast play is always a good way to wear down the opposition. If going back to the basics can ignite Juraj Slafkovsky and Arber Xhekaj, then it is the right time to get Pezzetta and his infectious energy into the lineup.