Opinion
3 min read

Montreal Canadiens Set to Clash with Minnesota Wild in a Battle of Wills at Xcel Energy Center

The Montreal Canadiens are gearing up for an electrifying showdown against the Minnesota Wild, promising fans an unforgettable night of hockey action. As the teams prepare to face off at the Xcel Energy Center, all eyes are on what could be a pivotal game for both sides.


Dec 21, 2023; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Marcus Johansson (90) shoots against the Montreal Canadiens in the first period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

Analyzing Past Performances


A deep dive into recent performances reveals a Montreal Canadiens team that's been struggling to find consistency. In their last outing against the New Jersey Devils, despite a valiant effort, they fell short with a 3-5 loss. The statistics from that game paint a picture of missed opportunities and what-if scenarios. With 24 shots on goal and managing to convert only 3 into scores, efficiency in front of net is something the Canadiens will be desperate to improve.


On the flip side, their upcoming opponents, the Minnesota Wild have shown resilience and tactical prowess in their games. However, it's crucial for Montreal to focus on their strengths - particularly their even-strength play where they've shown potential.


Dec 21, 2023; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Matt Boldy (12) celebrates a goal against the Montreal Canadiens in the first period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

Keys to Victory


For Montreal Canadiens (MTL), capitalizing on power plays will be crucial. Their performance against Calgary Flames showed promise with a powerplay goal contributing to their scoreline. Moreover, shorthanded goals have also been part of MTL's arsenal this season; showcasing their ability to strike when least expected.


Defensively, MTL has demonstrated solid goaltending with saves percentages that should instill confidence in front of net. However, minimizing penalties will be essential; discipline could very well dictate this game's outcome.


Dec 21, 2023; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild left wing Matt Boldy (12) scores against the Montreal Canadiens in the first period at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

As for Minnesota Wild (MIN), maintaining pressure and exploiting any defensive lapses from MTL will be key strategies. Given MTL’s recent struggles with giveaways and penalties under pressure, MIN has an opportunity to tilt ice advantage in its favor by playing aggressively yet smartly.


Looking Ahead


The upcoming clash between Montreal Canadiens and Minnesota Wild is more than just another regular-season game; it’s an opportunity for MTL to turn around its fortunes and gain momentum as we move deeper into the season. For fans eagerly anticipating this matchup, it promises high stakes and intense hockey action reflective of both teams' aspirations this season.


With strategic adjustments and sharpened focus on exploiting power play opportunities while tightening defense against counterattacks from MIN could pave way for success for Montreal Canadiens.


Fans can catch all the action live as these two teams go head-to-head at Xcel Energy Center on November 14th at 8:00 PM EDT. The game will be broadcasted across various networks including ESPN+, FDSN TV channel among others ensuring you won’t miss out no matter where you are!


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