The Montreal Canadiens will host the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Canadiens return north of the 49th parallel on Friday, April 24.
Caufield’s Passing Prowess
The Tampa Bay Lightning have a game plan for Cole Caufield, limiting the 51-goal scorer to just three shots through two games. Caufield has produced three assists in the meantime. Tampa’s game plan to limit his scoring opportunities has created an abundance of passing options for the winger.
With Tampa suppressing his scoring opportunities, it’s opened passing lanes and high-danger chances for his linemates. At plus odds, one might bank on a Caufield helper in Game 3.
Hutson’s Defensive Impact
Lane Hutson blocked 137 shots in his sophomore season. He’s stepped up big in his own zone as Noah Dobson remains sidelined. Hutson played over 32 minutes in Game 2, blocked two shots, and ranks third in the NHL in blocked shots over the last calendar month. He’s a workhorse at both ends of the ice.
Series Trends and Key Players
- Both games in this series thus far have needed extra time.
- The Montreal Canadiens have covered the puck line in five straight against Tampa.
- They’ve covered the puck line in 10 of Jakub Dobe’s last 11 starts.
Josh Anderson has scored in three of his last four playoff games against Tampa, including in both games in this series and dating back to the 2021 Stanley Cup Final. He’s scored in three of his last four and had his highest single-game shot total since March 3 in Game 2.
Three of the last five meetings between these teams have required extra time, including both playoff games thus far.