Opinion
3 min read

Can Canadiens Conquer the Avalanche at Ball Arena? A Quest for Redemption on Ice

As the Montreal Canadiens prepare to face off against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can capture a win on enemy ice. The upcoming game, scheduled for March 26th, is not just another regular-season matchup; it's a chance for the Canadiens to prove their mettle against one of the league's formidable opponents.


Jan 15, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens playsrs gather around Montreal Canadiens left wing Rafael Harvey-Pinard (49) to celebrate his goal against the Colorado Avalanche during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

The Canadiens have had a rollercoaster of performances leading up to this game. Their recent encounter with the Boston Bruins on March 14th ended in an overtime loss with a close score of 2-1. Despite this setback, there were positive takeaways from that game – notably, their goaltending was impeccable as they saved 100 percent of shots during powerplays and shorthanded situations. However, their powerplay opportunities did not translate into goals, which is an area that needs improvement.


In contrast, when facing off against the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 12th, Montreal showcased what they're capable of when everything clicks into place. They dominated with a shutout victory scoring three goals and allowing none thanks to stellar goaltending that saw them save all 41 shots faced – an impressive feat by any standard.


Jan 15, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Colorado Avalanche right wing Mikko Rantanen (96) plays the puck near Montreal Canadiens goalie Jake Allen (34) during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

However, consistency remains Montreal's Achilles' heel. This was evident in their game against the Toronto Maple Leafs on March 9th where they fell short with a scoreline reading 3-2 in favor of Toronto. Despite out-hitting and winning more faceoffs than Toronto – showcasing physical dominance and puck control – it wasn't enough to secure victory.


Looking ahead at their next challenge against Colorado Avalanche presents both opportunity and threat. The Avalanche are known for their high-octane offense and will test Montreal’s defense rigorously. To come out victorious, MTL must capitalize on powerplay chances while maintaining discipline to avoid penalties that could tilt the ice in COL's favor.


Jan 15, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Colorado Avalanche goalie Justus Annunen (60) looks on during warm-up before the game against the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

The key players for MTL will need to step up; particularly those involved in special teams play who can turn games around with either crucial saves or much-needed goals during man advantages or disadvantages.


Montreal fans should expect an intense battle where every shift counts and every puck possession could lead towards either elation or despair by final buzzer time.


The showdown is set: On Monday night at Ball Arena in Denver (7:00 PM MT), fans can catch all live action via ESPN+ online or ALT TV network broadcasts - don't miss what promises be an electrifying display hockey prowess!

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