Game 77 Preview: Montreal Canadiens @ Ottawa Senators

The Senators will try to avoid losing to the Canadiens for the third straight time this season after having their playoff hopes almost certainly crushed on Wednesday.

(43-27-7, 93 points) 2nd Atlantic Division

VS

(32-30-14, 78 points) 6th Atlantic Division

7:00 PM

Canadian Tire Centre

TV:  CBC  RADIO:  TSN1200

MATCHUP HISTORY

This will be the fifth and final meeting between the Sens and Habs this season. So far the season series has been split, at two wins each. Montreal has won the last two, both 5-4 victories in overtime.  The last meeting was especially hurtful as the Senators frittered away a 3 goal lead with less than 5 minutes remaining.

Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports

LAST GAMES

The Senators suffered a 2-1 loss to the Islanders in what should have been an easy win on Wednesday night. The Canadiens lost 3-1 against the Lightning in Tampa Tuesday.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Milan Michalek, OTT – Michalek has 4 goals in his past 4 games, and has shown much more consistency in the past 15 games. A strong end to the season may change many views on him.

Max Pacioretty, MTL – The Habs leading scorer is having quite a season with 35 goals, 10 of which are game winners.

TOP 3 STORYLINES FOR THE GAME

1. Last Canadian Standing – As it appears right now the Canadiens will be carrying the Canadian Flag as the lone team based north of the border to qualify for the playoffs.

2.  Vengeance – While nothing will make up for the disaster that was the last meeting between the clubs, the Senators would like to get some semblance of pride back in their game.

3. Return Of Spezz – Jason Spezza will be back in the lineup after missing the last 2 games, and watching from the sidelines as the Sens playoff chances went down the toilet.