Overview

The Montreal Canadiens are ready to kick off the 2024-25 NHL regular season as they host their fierce rivals, the Toronto Maple Leafs, this Wednesday. Fans are eager to see how the team will perform in this long-anticipated showdown.

Team Strategies and Line Compositions

The lines and defensive pairings for the game will closely mirror what was practiced on Sunday, providing a glimpse of the team's strategic outlook for the season. The Canadiens' formidable top line will consist of Juraj Slafkovsky, Nick Suzuki, and Cole Caufield. At just 25, Suzuki serves as the veteran presence of this trio, and the team is counting on him to help steer the offensive charge. However, as opponents become increasingly aware of the damage this line can inflict, additional support will be essential to keep the Canadiens competitive.

In the absence of newcomer Patrik Laine, who is sidelined with a knee injury, the second line aims to provide that extra support. Alex Newhook will team up with Kirby Dach and Joel Armia. While Laine's skills would have added depth, Armia's experience and determination in puck battles could be crucial when combined with Newhook's quickness and Dach's impressive transition play.

Defensive Lineup

On the defensive end, Mike Matheson and Kaiden Guhle will take on the top pairing. Meanwhile, emerging star Lane Hutson will make his NHL debut alongside veteran David Savard. The goaltending duties will be handled by Samuel Montembeault, with Cayden Primeau likely stepping in for Thursday's matchup against the Boston Bruins. Notably, Oliver Kapanen will serve as an extra attacker and won’t play in the season opener.

Previous Encounter

Earlier this preseason, when these two teams clashed, the game resembled an orchestrated melee rather than a conventional hockey match, with emotions running high following an injury to Laine. The expectation is that Wednesday's contest will focus more on skill and strategy, although Arber Xhekaj could be seen on the ice, ready to step in should any on-ice disputes arise.

Maple Leafs' Perspective

For the Maple Leafs, this season represents another opportunity to shift the narrative surrounding their prolonged playoff struggles. The team has generally excelled in the regular season but must find that elusive deeper gear to succeed in the playoffs this time around. The Maple Leafs plan to set a positive tone right from the start, prioritizing wins over distractions that often come with the territory of being a Toronto player.

Projected Lineups

Matthew Knies is expected to join Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner on the top line, while veteran William Nylander will anchor the second line. The Leafs will also feature former Canadiens captain Max Pacioretty, who earned a one-year contract following a strong training camp, despite battling injuries in the past.

There are questions surrounding the Leafs' goaltending situation, as they recalled Dennis Hildeby from the AHL, suggesting that starter Joseph Woll may not be ready. In his absence, Anthony Stolarz seems poised to take the lead in goal.

Projected Lineups