The first of back-to-back Super Bowl matinées saw the Habs welcome the NHL-leading Washington Capitals to the Bell Centre. After a less-than-inspiring effort in a 3-1 loss to Philadelphia on Thursday, it was revealed that David Desharnais would be a healthy scratch, with Sven Andrighetto taking his place in the Canadiens’ lineup.
Another subplot entering this one was the Canadiens’ dubious record of 4-10-1 against the top teams in the NHL, something they’ll have to improve on down the stretch if they’re going to make any noise come playoff time.