KEYS TO THE GAME
New game, same energy
Montreal—the city and its fans—reminded everyone Friday why it’s the best place in the world for hockey. The Bell Centre wasn’t just loud; it was a factor. It’s the kind of advantage you can’t fully explain. You truly have to be there to feel it.And the Canadiens did. Without getting swept up in the moment, they managed to harness that energy and turn it into an edge. Expect more of the same on Sunday.
Stay out of the box
Discipline continues to be an issue for both teams in this series. Game 3 was no exception. Montreal handed Tampa Bay five power play chances and was only burnt once, but that’s playing with fire because sooner or later, it won’t be so forgiving. Look for the Habs to want clean things up in that area tonight.
There is no I in team
The blueprint is already clear: it takes everyone. In Game 1, it was Juraj Slafkovsky and the power play. Game 2 belonged to Josh Anderson. Game 3 saw Kirby Dach’s line and Lane Hutson take over. Depth isn’t a luxury this time of year, but rather a requirement. So, who’s next in Game 4?
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Regular 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
Game 1 | Apr. 19 @ TBL: 4-3 MTL (OT)
Game 2 | Apr. 21 @ TBL: 3-2 TBL (OT)
Game 3 | Apr. 24 vs. TBL: 3-2 MTL (OT)
PLAYERS TO WATCH FOR
Lane Hutson’s engine doesn’t stall. If anything, it’s just getting going. What’s next for the Game 3 overtime hero?
Brayden Point got his first of the playoffs on Friday. For Montreal, that’s where it needs to end. A 50-goal scorer doesn’t stay quiet for long, and the Canadiens know the danger if he finds his rhythm.
BY THE NUMBERS: BOLTS-HABS
Here’s how the Lightning and Canadiens match up by the numbers: