KEYS TO THE GAME
Self-discipline… once more!
We’re beginning to sound like a damaged report, however 32 minor penalties taken over 4 video games will try this to you. At this stage, it’s not only a stat, it’s a storyline. If the Canadiens wish to tilt this collection of their favor, staying out of the field is important.
Begin robust, end stronger
The Habs have proven they’ll set the tone early, however in Video games 2 and 4, they couldn’t carry it via. Robust begins solely matter if they’re backed by full efforts. In Tampa, it’s about placing collectively a full 60 minutes and closing with the identical urgency they open with, particularly when the sport is on the road.
Bounce-back mindset
It’s been a defining trait all season. When the Canadiens have been knocked down, they’ve persistently discovered a approach to reply. That resilience shall be put to the take a look at once more on Wednesday.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Common season
Dec. 9 vs. TBL: 6-1 TBL
Dec. 28 @ TBL: 5-4 TBL (SO)
Mar. 31 @ TBL: 4-1 MTL
Apr. 9 vs. TBL: 2-1 MTL
Playoffs
Recreation 1 | Apr. 19 @ TBL: 4-3 MTL (OT)
Recreation 2 | Apr. 21 @ TBL: 3-2 TBL (OT)
Recreation 3 | Apr. 24 vs. TBL: 3-2 MTL (OT)
Recreation 4 | Apr. 26 vs. TBL: 3-2 TBL
PLAYERS TO WATCH FOR
Cole Caufield is a streak scorer, and together with his first of the collection coming in Recreation 4, the Canadiens shall be relying on their prime set off man to warmth up on the proper time down the stretch of this first-round battle.
On the opposite aspect, Brandon Hagel continues to set the tempo for Tampa Bay. The 27-year-old has been a continuing presence and enters with a playoff-leading six objectives via 4 video games. Containing his affect shall be a precedence for Montreal.
BY THE NUMBERS: HABS-BOLTS
Right here’s how the Canadiens and Lightning match up by the numbers: