The Montreal Canadiens look to capitalize on a key opponent's absence as they continue a crucial home stand at the Bell Centre. Goaltender Jakub Dobes gets the start for the Habs against a Chicago Blackhawks squad that will be without its most dangerous offensive weapon, rookie sensation Connor Bedard.
Home Stand Challenges and Key Absences
This Thursday night matchup marks the third of four consecutive games in Montreal for the Canadiens. The team has struggled to find consistency on home ice this season, posting a record of 8 wins, 9 losses, and 1 overtime loss at the Bell Centre. Their current home stand has been a mixed bag, beginning with a 4-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday, followed by a 4-1 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday.
The visiting Blackhawks arrive in Montreal significantly short-handed. Connor Bedard, the team's leading scorer, is out of the lineup with an upper-body injury, depriving Chicago of its primary offensive catalyst. This absence could be a major break for a Canadiens team looking to improve its home record.
Montreal's Lineup Adjustments and Storylines
In addition to Dobes getting the nod in goal, the Canadiens will also be without a key defender. Mike Matheson will miss his second straight game due to an upper-body injury, testing Montreal's defensive depth.
One forward to watch will be Montreal's Joe Veleno. The game presents a personal opportunity for Veleno to prove a point against the organization that moved on from him last season, adding an extra layer of motivation to the contest.
How to Catch the Game
The puck is scheduled to drop at 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Fans can watch the game on TSN2 and RDS, or listen on TSN Radio 690 and 98.5 FM. For viewers in Ontario and Western Canada facing regional blackouts, alternative streaming options are available to ensure they don't miss the action.
With Dobes in net and Bedard out, the Canadiens have a clear opportunity to secure two important points on home ice. The result could hinge on whether Montreal can solve its Bell Centre woes and exploit the void left by Chicago's injured superstar.
