Canadiens vs. Bruins: Game thread, roster, lines, and how to watch

Today marks the start of the NHL pre-season for the Montreal Canadiens.

The Boston Bruins are the Habs first opponent of the year, as they’ll face off at the Centre Videotron in Quebec City.

The Habs are fielding a lineup headlined by a top line of Alex Galchenyuk, Phillip Danault and Brendan Gallagher, who should be slated as Montreal’s second line this season, assuming they remain together.

They’re followed by a line of Paul Byron, Torrey Mitchell and Andrew Shaw, as Claude Julien is looking at this as a possible fourth line combination.

We also get to take our first look at Montreal’s top free agent acquisition in Karl Alzner, who will play his first game in the bleu, blanc et rouge, paired alongside the more offensive minded Jeff Petry. This gives Montreal a good look at a defence duo that could be used this season.

Newcomer Joe Morrow will also make his debut tonight, acquired as a free agent from Boston earlier this year. Tryout Eric Gelinas is also a new face, playing alongside first-round pick Noah Juulsen, who is getting ready for his first professional season.

Al Montoya and Zachary Fucale will split goaltending duties tonight in Quebec City, with Montoya battling for his spot behind Price, and Fucale looking to push his way into the AHL after playing most of last year with the Brampton Beast of the ECHL.

Meanwhile, Bruce Cassidy’s squad has very few Bruins regulars on the roster, seemingly making it a showcase for their young rookies to impress the Boston coaching staff. Notable names tonight for the Bruins is goaltender Malcolm Subban, who will split the net tonight with Zane McIntyre.

How To Watch

Puck Drop: 7:00 PM EDT / 4:00 PM PDT
In Canada: RDS
Elsewhere: NHL TV

Montreal Canadiens Projected Lineup

Boston Bruins Projected Lineup