Opinion
3 min read

Montreal Canadiens to Unleash Powerplay Prowess Against Ottawa Senators

In the realm of National Hockey League (NHL) matchups, few things are as exhilarating as witnessing the Montreal Canadiens (MTL) harness their powerplay capabilities. As they prepare to face off against the Ottawa Senators (OTT) at Canadian Tire Centre, a closer examination of past performances and current strategies suggests that MTL fans have much to anticipate.


Mar 18, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Alex Newhook (15) takes a shot and Ottawa Senators defenseman Tyler Kleven (43) defends during the second period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

The Power Behind the Play


Recent games have showcased Montreal's ability to capitalize on powerplay opportunities, a trend that could spell trouble for Ottawa. In their last encounter with the Florida Panthers, MTL demonstrated remarkable efficiency by converting two out of three powerplays into goals. This 67 percent success rate on powerplays not only underscores their offensive prowess but also highlights an area where OTT must tread carefully.


Conversely, while OTT has shown resilience in even-strength scenarios, their penalty kill statistics suggest vulnerability that MTL is well-positioned to exploit. The Senators' recent performance against Boston Bruins revealed cracks in their armor, particularly in managing shorthanded situations—a weakness Montreal's potent powerplay unit is primed to exploit.


Mar 18, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Ottawa Senators forward Ridly Greig (71) and Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine (92) exchange words during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Strategic Insights


For MTL, the key lies in maintaining discipline while pushing OTT into penalty trouble. With players like Nick Suzuki and Brendan Gallagher leading by example—both having starred in recent victories—their strategic playmaking and ability to draw penalties could be decisive factors. Additionally, Lane Hutson's emerging defensive prowess adds another layer of depth to Montreal's game plan.


OTT will need more than just home ice advantage to counteract Montreal's tactical approach. Ensuring disciplined play and minimizing penalties will be crucial for the Senators if they hope to neutralize one of MTL’s most lethal weapons—their powerplay unit.


Mar 18, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens goalie Sam Montembeault (35) skates during the warmup period before the game against the Ottawa Senators at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

As anticipation builds for this matchup between two Canadian rivals, all eyes will be on how these strategies unfold on game day. Will Montreal’s powerplay dominance continue? Or will Ottawa find a way to stifle one of NHL’s most exciting offensive units?


The upcoming game is scheduled for April 11th at 7:00 PM EDT at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa and can be watched live on ESPN+. Fans from both sides are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying clash as these teams vie for supremacy on ice.


Remember to share this article with fellow hockey enthusiasts who appreciate insightful analysis ahead of big NHL showdowns!

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