Pre-Match Analysis: Home Challenges Await at RDS

In a highly anticipated matchup, the Chicago Blackhawks face the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre. The game is crucial for both teams as they navigate challenging seasons.

Home Challenges Await at RDS

This season has been difficult for the Canadiens, currently holding a record of 8-9-1 at home after 18 games. This record does not align with their aspirations for playoff contention. They started strong at home with a record of 5-1-1 as of November 8 but have struggled since, suffering eight losses in their last eleven games.

Recent Performance

Montreal’s recent form includes heavy defeats, such as 5-1 against the Kings and 7-0 against the Stars. Coach Martin St-Louis emphasized the need for a mature performance to uplift their home record. The team looks to build on recent consistency, despite the ongoing challenges.

Blackhawks Struggles Without Bedard

Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are grappling with the absence of star player Connor Bedard, who is sidelined until January due to injury. With 44 points from 93 team goals this season, his absence will significantly impact their performance. Chicago has recorded only four wins in the last 14 games, diminishing their playoff hopes in a competitive Central Division.

Tyler Bertuzzi leads the Blackhawks with 16 goals and 26 points this season, while Andre Burakovsky and Frank Nazar are also significant contributors, each exceeding 20 points. However, the squad lacks the firepower to compete effectively without Bedard’s presence.

Projected Lineups

For the Canadiens, Jakub Dobes will return as the starting goaltender, while defenseman Mike Matheson remains out. The projected lineup includes:

• Forwards: Caufield, Suzuki, Bolduc, Slafkovsky, Kapanen, Demidov, Anderson, Evans, Texier, Beck, Veleno, Gallagher
• Defensemen: Struble, Dobson, Hutson, Carrier, Fowler, Xhekaj, Engström
• Goaltender: Dobes

The Blackhawks are expected to align as follows:

• Forwards: Bertuzzi, Nazar, Burakovsky, Teravainen, Dickinson, Mikheyev, Moore, Greene, Lardis, Dach, Toninato, Donato
• Defensemen: Vlasic, Crevier, Knight, Kaiser, Grzelcyk, Soderblom, Del Mastro, Murphy
• Goaltender: Knight

As this matchup unfolds, both teams seek crucial points in their seasons. The home advantage factor will play a pivotal role in the Canadiens’ performance at the Bell Centre, as they aim to reclaim their competitive edge.