The Montreal Canadiens are set for a significant measuring-stick game on Tuesday night, facing the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena. This matchup marks the first meeting between the two teams since the Capitals eliminated the Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs last spring.
A Chance for Redemption and Measurement
For the Canadiens, currently holding a record of 26-14-6, this game is more than just another regular-season contest. It is an opportunity to gauge how much the team has evolved since being dispatched by the Capitals. In that decisive playoff game, Washington secured a convincing 8-4 victory, powered by a hat trick from legendary captain Alexander Ovechkin. The Capitals enter this game with a record of 23-17-6.
The contest promises to be a compelling benchmark for Montreal's standing in the Eastern Conference hierarchy. Fans can watch the puck drop at 7 p.m. ET on TSN2 and RDS, or listen on TSN Radio 690 and 98.5 FM.
Key Players and Lineup Notes
Montreal will rely on goaltender Samuel Montembeault, who gets the start. Montembeault has been solid since his return from a conditioning stint, remaining undefeated in his last three starts.
Offensively, all eyes are on young star Juraj Slafkovsky, who is in the midst of a spectacular run. The forward has racked up 18 points in his last 12 games, including a three-point performance in Montreal's previous game against the Vancouver Canucks. Rookie Ivan Demidov also tallied three points in that game.
Forward Josh Anderson remains a question mark for the Canadiens, as he is considered a game-time decision due to an upper-body injury.
How to Follow the Action
For viewers in Ontario and Western Canada experiencing blackouts on TSN2 or RDS, alternative streaming options are available to catch every minute of the action. Stay connected for real-time updates, game highlights, and analysis throughout the evening. The conversation will also be live on the Hockey Inside Out YouTube channel, offering fans an interactive way to experience the game.
This rematch is not just about two points in the standings; it's a psychological hurdle and a direct test of Montreal's growth. A strong performance against the team that ended their previous season would send a powerful message about the Canadiens' current trajectory and playoff readiness.
