Canadiens Face Blackhawks with Playoff Spot on the Line

MONTREAL – The Montreal Canadiens will have another opportunity to secure a playoff spot when they face the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday, April 14, at 7:00 p.m. ET at the Bell Centre. A victory will clinch their postseason berth, while the Blackhawks aim to play spoiler.

This game marks the Canadiens’ third attempt to clinch a place in the Stanley Cup Playoffs following a winless road trip in Ottawa and Toronto. Hosting the game at home adds pressure, as the team has shown resilience with a 9-0-1 record at the Bell Centre since the 4 Nations Face-Off.

“Every match is crucial now. We know what’s at stake and we just need to go out there and get the job done,” Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki said. With 50 points from 39 games at home this season, Suzuki is expected to lead the team’s charge for victory.

The Blackhawks, currently in 31st place in the league, are in the midst of a rebuilding phase. Despite their record of 23-46-11, they still possess pride and are looking to disrupt the Canadiens’ playoff hopes. Chicago has struggled on the road lately, with a 2-9-1 record since February.

Statistically, the Canadiens have the edge this season, averaging 3.58 goals per game compared to the Blackhawks’ 2.71. A notable standout for the Canadiens has been Cole Caufield, who leads the team with 37 goals this season, while Chicago’s scoring leader, Sam Lafferty, has managed only 35 goals.

Fans will also see Artyom Levshunov, the second-overall pick of the 2024 draft, making his presence felt. The 19-year-old defenseman made his NHL debut earlier this season and has already garnered six assists in 16 games.

“It’s exciting for me to be playing in front of our fans,” Levshunov stated. “I grow my game every day and hope to contribute to our success.”

As both teams prepare for the match-up, the Canadiens plan to hold a morning skate on game day, resuming their efforts after the last practice before the contest. Lineup news and player updates will be released closer to puck drop, so fans are encouraged to follow the team’s social media accounts.

The stakes are high as the Canadiens push for the playoffs while the Blackhawks aim to spoil their plans. Fans are eagerly looking forward to a thrilling encounter at the Bell Centre as the teams battle it out on Monday night.