On Tuesday night, the Montreal Canadiens were in Philadelphia to face the Flyers in their last game of the regular season. The result was a 4-2 loss.
Here are some quick thoughts from the final game.
The situation on D is concerning.
Yes, Matheson was resting, and the pairs were off. But even with him confirmed to start the first game of the playoffs, other questions remain. If Dobson misses a chunk of the first series, and if Carrier isn’t ready to return, and if Guhle isn’t sufficiently maintained, the Lightning could make quick work of the Canadiens.
But… Matheson will be back. Carrier was supposed to be out two to four, and two have passed – he might be ready. If Guhle can play up to reputation, and do so consistently, the group may be able to hold on until Dobson is ready. That’s if Dobson gets a good report at his two-week re-evaluation.
That’s a lot of ifs and mights.
The intermission interview shed some light on how management sees this season.
GM Kent Hughes was interviewed during the intermission, and described the upcoming series as a good experience for the young Habs to go up against a battle-tested team like Tampa.
Hughes may be trying to foster an underdog narrative, or he may be trying to manage expectations. Or he may have just been calling it as he sees it. Whatever the outcome, this series against the Lightning will serve a developmental purpose in the rebuild.
It’s a good perspective. Regardless of what happens in this series, the core has matured this year and they’re closer to contention.
Next stop is Tampa Bay.
The opponent wasn’t confirmed in Philadelphia, but home ice advantage was. The Lightning will get the start at home.
Fortunately, the Canadiens have been very good on the road this season, and the road trip may serve to galvanize the pack mentality they will need to bring if they have any hope of winning this series.
Sunday night is the expectation for Game 1. The table is set. Go Habs Go!
Hab At Her 