Win and You’re In? Canadiens Face Crucial Test in Ottawa

Win and you’re in… right? That seems to be the strategy at this point for the Montreal Canadiens and their goaltending duo of Samuel Montembeault and Jakub Dobeš.

The Canadiens woke up this morning in Ottawa holding the third and final playoff spot in the Atlantic Division. Montreal took care of the Toronto Maple Leafs Tuesday night in relatively easy fashion, and while Jakub Dobeš didn’t have to stand on his head, he was solid enough to make the saves you’d expect from a number-one goalie.

Goaltending Questions Continue

With the playoff race tightening, every point matters in the standings. That’s why many expected Dobeš — who has five wins in his last seven games, including his 20th victory of the season against Toronto — to get the start again in Ottawa despite the back-to-back situation.

Right?

Well… surprise, surprise.

The Canadiens have instead called up Jacob Fowler, and he is expected to start against the rival Senators.

Meanwhile, Samuel Montembeault continues to struggle with inconsistent performances that have often resulted in losses. As time passes, it’s starting to look more and more like his time in Montreal may be coming to an end.

Fowler arrives for his second stint with the Canadiens after posting an impressive 19-7-1 record, a 2.23 goals-against average, and a .916 save percentage in 27 games with the Laval Rocket. He’ll be looking for his fifth win with Montreal this season — one that could seriously dent Ottawa’s playoff hopes.

Caufield a Game-Time Decision

Forward Cole Caufield appears to be a game-time decision. He traveled with the team to Ottawa but is currently battling a virus.

If he’s unable to play, head coach Martin St. Louis may once again need to shuffle his lineup.

A promotion to the top line for rookie forward Ivan Demidov could be exactly what he needs to get going again after a slow start coming out of the Olympic break.

Senators Enter Red Hot

Montreal has won two of the three meetings against Ottawa this season, but the Senators have been on a tear lately and are pushing hard for a playoff spot.

Ottawa finished their last road trip 4-0-1 and currently sits at 9-1-2 in their last 12 games, making them one of the hottest teams in the NHL right now.

Tim Stützle has been leading the charge with a 13-game point streak, collecting 17 points during that stretch. Historically, he’s also been productive against Montreal, posting 24 points in 26 career games versus the Canadiens.

Team captain Brady Tkachuk has also been a major factor, recording 30 points in 32 games, including 15 goals.

Ullmark Back in Form

Montreal will also have to deal with a goaltender who seems to be finding his groove again.

Linus Ullmark enters the game with a 5-0-2 record in his last seven starts, appearing to have rediscovered his form after a brief absence from the lineup.

For the Canadiens, tonight’s matchup is about more than just another game — it’s about holding onto a playoff spot in an increasingly tight race.

Let the game begin!