For some time now, the Montreal Canadiens have been a team without purpose, floating between competing visions of fighting for a playoff spot or dropping into better draft position. Their opponent tonight, the Washington Capitals, are the type of overwhelming team that will happily make that decision for them.
The Habs have already lost to Washington twice this year, with both defeats coming within a span of 15 days in December. With the Caps riding a ridiculous 9-1-0 record over their last 10, and holding an 11 point advantage over their closest Presidents Trophy competitor, they don't appear ready to let-up.