The Montreal Canadiens are riding a wave of consistency this season, securing six or more points in each of their last ten sequences. While they haven't enjoyed any major winning streaks, their ability to avoid extended losing stretches speaks volumes about their resilience.
In their latest five-game sequence, the Habs bounced back from two losses in three games with impressive victories over the New York Islanders and Carolina Hurricanes. Defensively, they’ve been rock-solid, boasting a save percentage above .900 in consecutive sequences and allowing just 14 goals, placing them third-best in the league this season.
Jakub Dobes has been a standout in goal, but it's clear the defense deserves credit too. Their High Danger Chance Percentage stands at an impressive 60% over the last four games, and they've improved to 13th in High Danger Chances Allowed, a leap from 22nd earlier in the season.
The power play is holding steady, but the penalty kill remains a thorn in their side, surrendering four goals in 12 attempts recently. There’s a silver lining, though, as underlying stats suggest improvements are on the horizon.
They’ve minimized defensive zone time at four-on-five, ranking sixth lowest, and lead the league in neutral zone time on the penalty kill. Some recent goals against, like those by Emil Heineman and Matthew Schaefer, were ones Jacob Fowler might want back, while Nikolaj Ehlers’ goal involved a bit of bad luck with a deflection.
As the season winds down, the Habs continue to rely on shot quality, boasting a top-tier shooting percentage of 13.2%. They’re 13 points ahead of last year’s pace after 70 games, closing in on the century mark in points, a feat last achieved in the 2016-2017 season.
While their standing hasn't shifted, the Wild Card race below them is heating up. The Blue Jackets have climbed into a top-three seed in the Metropolitan Division, and the Senators have leapfrogged the Red Wings for the final Wild Card spot.
Injuries could play a pivotal role in the final stretch. The Red Wings have felt the absence of Dylan Larkin and Andrew Copp, who are back but not yet at full strength. Ottawa’s defense is hurting with Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot sidelined, putting pressure on rookies Carter Yakemchuk and Jorian Donovan.
For Montreal, Josh Anderson’s return from a shoulder injury is a boost. The team’s depth is a strength, and as long as the core stays healthy, they’re well-positioned for the playoffs.
Their schedule is relatively favorable, ranked ninth in difficulty, with key matchups against Carolina and Tampa Bay looming. April should be smoother, with six of their last eight games against teams outside the playoff picture.