Tonight, hockey fans are in for an electrifying showdown as the Montreal Canadiens face off against the Colorado Avalanche. The game is set to start at 7:00 PM EST, and it promises to be a crucial contest for both teams!

This matchup takes place in the picturesque city of Denver, where the Canadiens have historically struggled. Interestingly, their last victory at the Avalanche's home turf was way back in 2014. After a long 10-year drought, they finally broke that streak last season with a gritty 2-1 win. In an impressive twist, Montreal swept the season series during the 2023-24 campaign, grabbing two narrow one-goal victories against the Avalanche. Can they continue their success tonight?

Expect tonight's action to resemble the thrilling 4-3 victory Montreal celebrated at home last January, rather than the more understated 2-1 encounters. The Avalanche's offense is among the league's most potent, especially considering their current form, riding a six-game winning streak. Star players Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen will be the main focus for the Canadiens, along with former teammate Artturi Lehkonen, who has been on fire with 14 goals in just 27 appearances, including a recent hat trick against Utah HC.

For the Canadiens to snatch a win and conclude their road trip successfully, containing the Avalanche's top line will be crucial, as will finding ways to breach goalie Mackenzie Blackwood’s defense.

Projected Lineups

Montreal Canadiens:

Forwards:

- Cole Caufield - Nick Suzuki - Juraj Slafkovský

- Michael Pezzetta - Kirby Dach - Alex Newhook

- Emil Heineman - Jake Evans - Joel Armia

- Josh Anderson - Christian Dvorak - Brendan Gallagher

Defense:

- Lane Hutson - Mike Matheson

- Kaiden Guhle - Alexandre Carrier

- Arber Xhekaj - Jayden Struble

Goalies:

- Starter: Jakub Dobeš

- Backup: Samuel Montembeault

Injured:

- David Savard

Ill:

- Patrik Laine

Colorado Avalanche:

Forwards:

- Artturi Lehkonen - Nathan MacKinnon - Mikko Rantanen

- Jonathan Drouin - Casey Mittelstadt - Ross Colton

- Joel Kiviranta - Parker Kelly - Logan O’Connor

- Jere Innala - Juuso Parssinen - Oskar Olausson

Defense:

- Devon Toews - Cale Makar

- Samuel Girard - Josh Manson

- Keaton Middleton - Sam Malinski

This thrilling matchup sets the stage for a night of high-paced action and fierce competition. Will the Canadiens continue their winning ways against a formidable Avalanche side? Don’t miss the action tonight as these two teams clash! Tune in and experience the excitement live!