It was a Saturday night showdown between the Forever Rivals, the Montreal Canadiens, and the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Canadiens came into the match on a losing streak against their divisional opponent, but flying high after thrashing Philadelphia on Thursday. Toronto has had to overcome a few struggles, including a loss to the Capitals, in addition to Nazem Kadri being out of the lineup with a concussion.
Montreal was dealt a blow just before game time with Jonathan Drouin being a scratch from the lineup due to the flu.