Opinion
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Canadiens and Devils Clash in Newark: A Battle of Resilience at Prudential Center

As the Montreal Canadiens prepare to face off against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center, fans should brace themselves for a game that could very well defy expectations. The Canadiens, despite their recent setbacks, are not a team to be underestimated.


Jan 17, 2024; Newark, New Jersey, USA; Montreal Canadiens right wing Cole Caufield (22) loses the puck in front of New Jersey Devils goaltender Nico Daws (50) during the third period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at their last encounter with the St. Louis Blues on February 11th, it's clear that Montreal's performance was less than stellar. With a shooting percentage of only 6 percent and conceding seven goals, it was a night to forget for the Canadiens. Their powerplay opportunities were squandered as they failed to convert any of their three chances and ultimately fell with just two points on home ice.


However, sports are never just about one game or one loss; they're about resilience and adaptability. And if there's anything that stands out from Montreal's recent games, it is precisely this resilience. Just days before their loss to the Blues, on February 7th against the Washington Capitals in Washington D.C., Montreal showcased what they're capable of when firing on all cylinders – an impressive five-point victory with a shooting percentage of 19 percent.


Jan 17, 2024; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils goaltender Nico Daws (50) squirts water in the air during a break in the third period against the Montreal Canadiens at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

The Canadiens' ability to bounce back from adversity will be crucial as they take on New Jersey. The Devils have been formidable opponents this season but are not without weaknesses that can be exploited by a determined Montreal team.


New Jersey will certainly rely heavily on their home advantage and aim to control the game early on. Yet MTL has shown that when pushed into a corner, they can come out swinging with an aggressive offense as seen in their victory over Washington.


Jan 17, 2024; Newark, New Jersey, USA; Montreal Canadiens goaltender Sam Montembeault (35) makes a save on New Jersey Devils right wing Timo Meier (28)  during the second period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

The upcoming match promises intensity and perhaps even redemption for MTL after their tough loss against St. Louis. Fans should look forward to seeing how head coach Dominique Ducharme adjusts his strategies following recent performances and whether he can inspire his team to channel the energy from their win over Washington rather than dwell on more recent defeats.


The scheduled puck drop is set for February 24th at 7:00 PM Eastern Time at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ – an opportunity for fans nationwide to tune in via ESPN+ or locally through MSG channel 634 where they can witness whether MTL’s tenacity will prevail over NJ’s home-ice prowess.

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