In the past, the stakes of a game between the Canadiens and the Maple Leafs on a Saturday night in April would have sparked tremendous excitement.
In the past, and at this time of year, the two teams often competed for either a playoff spot or home field advantage in preparation for the spring tournament.
Watch the confrontation between Montreal and Toronto on our airwaves from 19:00.
But there. Things change and the NHL is a spinning wheel.
On April 8, 2023, it has long been clear that the CH season (26th overall) will not go beyond its 82 regular season games. Plagued by countless injuries, the club, while trying their best, is counting the days that separate them from a long respite.
The Maple Leafs have already secured second place in the Atlantic Division and therefore begin their confrontation against the Lightning at home.
The stakes of tonight’s game, played on the Toronto side, are therefore lower. But all players have a pride and a reason to want to make their mark. At the Habs, the many young skaters will want to continue their attempt to seduce management. As for the Leafs, we want to make sure we go into the playoffs with the wind in our sails.
Nick Suzuki leads Montreal with 63 points in 78 games.
Mitch Marner is doing the same in the Toronto camp with 95 points in 77 games.
Avid beer trailblazer. Friendly student. Tv geek. Coffee junkie. Total writer. Hipster-friendly internet practitioner. Pop culture fanatic.