Canadiens vs. Lightning: Game thread, rosters, lines, and how to watch

Montreal Canadiens vs. Tampa Bay Lightning

How to watch

Start time: 7:30 PM EDT / 4:30 PM PDT
In the Canadiens region: TSN2, TSN Direct (English), RDS, RDS Direct (French)
In the Lightning region: SUN
Elsewhere: NHL.tv / Rogers NHL Live

Despite the fact that the Tampa Bay Lightning are cruising through their final games with the Presidents’ Trophy already secured while the Montreal Canadiens are on the outside of the post-season picture, and the 0-3 head-to-head record the Canadiens show versus the team from Florida, the season series hasn’t been as lopsided as those numbers would suggest.

The first game of the season had the clubs just about even in shots, though the score ended up 4-1 in Tampa’s favour. The Canadiens hung with the Lightning for 40 minutes in the most recent game on February 16, seeing the superior firepower of the Lightning take things over in the third.

A game just before the turn of the new year was an impressive showing from Montreal as they posted five goals from 38 shots on ther division rival, but Antti Niemi was unable to shut the door at the other end, letting one more leak through to spoil the effort.

Tonight, the tables are turned as the Lightning need to rely on a backup goaltender. Montreal has every player available once again to launch their best attack. They’ve shown the ability to compete with the NHL’s top team this season, and tonight they need to finally get over the hump to secure a critical victory.

Montreal Canadiens projected lineup

Forwards

Defencemen

Goaltenders

Tampa Bay Lightning projected lineup

Forwards

Defencemen

Goaltenders