The Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres face a decisive Game 7 to determine who will advance to the Eastern Conference Final to play the Carolina Hurricanes. The Atlantic Division rivals have battled through six games.
NHL Staff Weigh In
NHL.com staff writers and editors have offered their predictions for the game.
Amalie Benjamin, a senior writer, is picking the Canadiens. Benjamin acknowledges the unpredictability of the series, noting the Sabres’ Game 6 win. However, she believes the Canadiens will defy expectations and win, despite the Sabres attempting to treat the game like a road game.
Nicholas J. Cotsonika, a columnist, is backing the Sabres. Cotsonika notes the Canadiens’ missed opportunity in Game 6 after taking an early lead. He believes the Sabres gained momentum that will carry into Game 7 in Buffalo. Cotsonika recalls the Canadiens winning Game 7 on the road against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round, but notes they were dominated and fortunate to win that game, and he does not expect a repeat.
Tom Gulitti, a senior writer, is predicting a Canadiens victory. Gulitti highlights the Canadiens’ ability to bounce back after losses, with a 5-0 record in games following a defeat during the playoffs. He also points to their 5-2 road record and the Sabres’ 2-4 home record in the playoffs. Gulitti anticipates a rebound performance from Canadiens goalie Jakub Dobes and expects their power play to deliver.
Tracey Myers, a staff writer, is forecasting a Sabres win. Myers anticipates a tight game. She believes the Sabres will ride the momentum from their Game 6 comeback to a home win on Monday. Myers suggests the win could come from a lucky bounce or a deflection.
Looking Ahead to Game 7
Game 7 is scheduled for Monday at KeyBank Center in Buffalo. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m. ET, with TV coverage on ESPN, SN, TVAS, and CBC.
The Sabres are coming into Game 7 with momentum after their comeback from down 3-1 in Game 6.
- The Canadiens have gone 5-0 in games after losses during the playoffs.
- The Canadiens have a 5-2 road record in the playoffs.
- The Sabres have a 2-4 home record in the playoffs.
The winner of the series will face the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Final.