Clash at Bell Centre: Montreal Canadiens Host Ottawa Senators

As the Montreal Canadiens gear up to face the Ottawa Senators at the iconic Bell Centre, fans are brimming with anticipation. The Canadiens have been displaying a form that can only be described as formidable, and their recent performances suggest they're poised for another victory.

In their last game on December 23 against the Chicago Blackhawks, MTL showcased an offensive masterclass by netting five goals and dominating with a shooting percentage of 18 percent. Their powerplay might not have converted opportunities into goals, but their even-strength play was nothing short of impressive. With 17 blocked shots and a faceoff win percentage of nearly 57 percent, they've proven to be defensively resilient as well.

The goaltending has been solid too; saving 19 out of 21 shots is no small feat and reflects a save percentage just over 90 percent. This kind of performance between the pipes will be crucial when facing OTT.

On December 22 against Minnesota Wild, despite an overtime loss, MTL managed to score three times on just twenty-five shots. They showed tenacity by pushing the game beyond regulation time. However, it's worth noting that they gave away eight penalties in this game – an area that needs tightening up if they want to maintain control against OTT.

Earlier on December 19 versus Winnipeg Jets, MTL's powerplay came alive scoring two out of seven opportunities which contributed significantly to their win in overtime. Their goaltender saved an impressive thirty out of thirty-two shots faced – a save percentage nearing 94 percent which could spell trouble for OTT's forwards.

The Senators should not be underestimated though; any NHL team has the potential to surprise on any given night. But based on recent performances and statistics alone, it seems likely that MTL will carry the day when these two teams collide.

Fans should mark their calendars for January 24th when these two teams will face off at Bell Centre in Montreal at what promises to be an electrifying match-up starting at midnight UTC (7 PM Eastern Time). The action can be caught live nationally via ESPN+ internet broadcast network – don't miss what could very well be another showcase event for this storied franchise.