Here are the playoff matchup possibilities for the Canadiens depending on games tomorrow based on what we know presently.
For starters, the sure things are that the Habs can finish no higher than seventh; the Senators and Penguins will meet in one series; the Sabres and Devils will finish second or third depending on tomorrows results.
If the Devils win over the Sabres, they will bag second place. A Buffalo win and they leapfrog the Devils. If Jersey loses in regulation, the Sabres remain third and plays the Bruins.
The one game to watch will be the Rangers / Flyers tilt at 3 p.m. Whichever team wins is in the playoffs, plain and simple. Should New York take it, Montreal finishes seventh, although the teams will identical records. If the Flyers rise to it, Montreal will have a date in Washington next Thursday.
The following four combinations outline who the Habs will play in all eventualities, overtime not playing a part:
Rangers win / Flyers lose / Sabres win / Devils lose: Canadiens play Sabres
Rangers win / Flyers lose / Sabres lose / Devils win: Canadiens play Devils
Rangers lose / Flyers win / Sabres win / Devils lose: Canadiens play Capitals
Rangers lose / Flyers win / Sabres lose / Devils win: Canadiens play Capitals
Regardless of opponent, the Canadiens will play on the road Thursday and Saturday, with home dates following on Monday and Wednesday. Ticket information can be found here.
