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

The battle for the top of the Atlantic Division begins with the first of three games in eight days between the Ottawa Senators and the Montreal Canadiens. With only one point separating these two teams in the standings, this game is the start to defining the playoff picture in the East.

Both previous matchups earlier this season resulted in a one-goal decision. The Senators won both; one in a shootout and another in regulation. It may be even more difficult for the Habs this time around, as the Senators have steadily improved since then while the Habs are still adapting under Claude Julien.

For Julien, he may finally be realizing how the team's defence corps stacks up. After Alexei Emelin's rough play recently, the Russian defenceman will be a healthy scratch. Nathan Beaulieu draws back in, returning to the left of Jordie Benn. Brandon Davidson will start alongside Jeff Petry.

Puck Drop is 7:00 PM EDT / 4:00 PM PDT

How to watch:

Canada (English): Sportsnet
Canada (French): TVA Sports
Elsewhere: NHL.tv/NHL Gamecentre Live, NHL Centre Ice

Montreal Canadiens starting lineup

Forwards

Defencemen

Goaltenders

Scratched: Alexei Emelin, Andreas Martinsen, Michael McCarron

Injured: Nikita Nesterov (lower body), Brian Flynn (upper body)

Ottawa Senators starting lineup

Forwards

Scratched: Fredrik Claesson , Jyrki Jokipakka, Christopher DiDomenico

Injured: Mark Stone (lower body), Chris Neil (broken finger)