Boston Bruins Host Montreal Canadiens in Centennial Game: Preview and Predictions

The Boston Bruins are set to host the Montreal Canadiens on Sunday, December 1, 2024, in a game that marks the Bruins’ 100th anniversary as the NHL’s oldest U.S. franchise. This Centennial Game will be played at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, and will feature pre-game ceremonies honoring the franchise’s rich history, including appearances by alumni such as Patrice Bergeron, Ray Bourque, Johnny Bucyk, and Willie O’Ree.

The Bruins come into this game looking to bounce back from a 2-1 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday. Despite their recent struggles, particularly in scoring at home, the Bruins have a strong record against the Canadiens, having won nine of their last ten head-to-head matchups. Boston’s offense, led by David Pastrnak, Brad Marchand, and Elias Lindholm, has been inconsistent, scoring only 2.32 goals per game this season. However, their defense, anchored by Charlie McAvoy and Nikita Zadorov, and goaltender Jeremy Swayman, has shown moments of solidity.

The Montreal Canadiens, with an 8-12-3 record, are currently in last place in the Atlantic Division. They have struggled on both ends of the ice, scoring only 2.82 goals per game while allowing 3.73 goals against per game. Key players Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield have been the bright spots in an otherwise underperforming offense. The Canadiens are likely to start Cayden Primeau in goal, who has a career save percentage of .887 and a goals-against average of 4.29.

Betting odds favor the Bruins, with a moneyline of -210 and the Canadiens at +172. The over/under for total goals is set at 6, with many analysts predicting a high-scoring game given the defensive struggles of both teams. The Bruins are expected to dominate, but the Canadiens’ recent performance, including a close 4-3 loss to the New York Rangers, suggests they could pose a challenge.

Coach Martin St. Louis of the Canadiens expressed frustration with the officiating in their last game but remains optimistic about his team’s performance. “I thought we deserved better. I thought we played better than them,” St. Louis said, highlighting the team’s need to improve special teams play.

The game promises to be an emotional and competitive matchup, with the Bruins seeking to honor their legacy and the Canadiens aiming to upset their rivals. Given the historical significance and the current form of both teams, this Centennial Game is anticipated to be a memorable event for hockey fans.