Upcoming Matchup: Canadiens vs. Ducks
In a thrilling non-conference encounter set for Sunday at 7 p.m. EDT, the Montreal Canadiens will take on the Anaheim Ducks at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec. This marks the second matchup of the season between these two teams, with Anaheim edging out a victory in their previous encounter, winning 6-5 in a shootout.
Team Records and Performance
The Canadiens, currently boasting a record of 36 wins, 19 losses, and 10 overtime losses, sit comfortably in the Atlantic Division, having secured 18 of those wins on home ice. They rank fourth in the NHL for penalties with an average of 4.2 infractions per game, totaling 273 penalties so far this season.
On the other hand, the Ducks are positioned in the Pacific Division with a record of 36-27-3 and have struggled somewhat on the road, having won only 14 out of 33 games played away from home. Notably, Anaheim demonstrates strength in power-play situations, with a remarkable 14-2-2 record when they manage to net at least one power-play goal during a game.
Key Players
Leading the offensive charge for Montreal is Cole Caufield, who has notched 38 goals and 27 assists, while Nick Suzuki has contributed significantly with four goals and eight assists in his last ten outings. For Anaheim, Jackson LaCombe stands out with eight goals and 38 assists, and Cutter Gauthier has tallied eight goals along with one assist over his last ten games.
Recent Performance
In their respective last ten games, the Canadiens have recorded a mix of 5 wins, 2 losses, and 3 overtime losses, averaging 3.9 goals alongside 6.9 assists but allowing an average of 3.1 goals per game. The Ducks have fared slightly better, with 6 wins and 4 losses, managing to average 3.2 goals but giving up around 3.3 goals per game.
Injury Updates and Betting Odds
As for injury updates, both teams are reporting no player injuries ahead of this exciting matchup, which promises high-stakes action on the ice. Bettors can expect Montreal to be favored at -152, while Anaheim stands at +126, with the game’s total set at over/under 6.5 goals.
