Opinion
3 min read

Montreal Canadiens Set to Challenge Edmonton Oilers in Battle of Wills at Rogers Place

As the Montreal Canadiens gear up for their next challenge against the Edmonton Oilers, fans are holding their breath for what promises to be a clash of titanic proportions. The Canadiens, coming off a string of performances that have left much to be desired, are looking to turn the tide and showcase their resilience.


Jan 13, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Johnathan Kovacevic (26) and Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) going opposite directions during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports

The last outing for the Canadiens was a tough one. On March 8th, they faced off against the Carolina Hurricanes and were narrowly edged out with a final score of 4-1. Despite putting up 25 shots on goal and playing aggressively with 13 hits, they struggled in faceoffs with only a 40 percent win rate and failed to capitalize on five powerplay opportunities. Their goaltending was solid with an impressive save percentage but ultimately wasn't enough to secure victory.


This pattern of near-misses has been all too familiar for MTL this season. Just days earlier on March 6th against the Nashville Predators, they managed an overtime win with four goals from thirty shots showing tenacity by bouncing back from an early deficit. This game highlighted their ability to fight back under pressure—a trait they'll need in spades when facing EDM.


Jan 13, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) prepares for a face off against the Montreal Canadiens during the third period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports

However, it's not all doom and gloom for MTL fans. The team showed sparks of brilliance during these past games that could ignite into full-blown dominance if properly harnessed. Their shooting percentage has been commendable when considering high-pressure situations like overtime where they've managed clutch goals.


On the other side of the ice stands EDM who will not make things easy by any stretch of imagination. They come into this game well-rested and ready to defend home turf at Rogers Place—a venue known for its electrifying atmosphere that can rattle even seasoned opponents.


Jan 13, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (93) and Montreal Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson (8) during the third period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports

MTL must focus on improving faceoff performance which has been lackluster recently; winning puck possession will be crucial against an Oilers team that knows how to exploit turnovers effectively.


Defensively speaking, MTL's shot blocking has shown promise—24 blocks against Carolina is no small feat—and will be vital in disrupting EDM's offensive flow which is spearheaded by dynamic forwards known for precision shooting.


The upcoming battle scheduled on March 20th at Rogers Place is more than just another game; it's an opportunity for redemption—a chance for Montreal Canadiens players and coaching staff alike to prove that setbacks are merely setups for comebacks.


Fans eager not just witness but feel every pulse-pounding moment can tune into ESPN+ where live coverage will commence at 9:00 PM Eastern Time (7:00 PM local time). It’s time once again lace up those skates tighten those pads because when MTL takes ice Edmonton—it’s more than just points line—it’s about pride honor storied legacy one hockey’s most celebrated franchises.

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