The Rangers and Habs have been destined to meet in the first round since before Claude Julien was hired by the Canadiens. But with the Julien hire, the Habs changed the way they play. They have been much more focused on team defense, which is something Julien is known for.
The Habs do not have a ton of depth, and rely on that team defense and Carey Price to carry them. Don’t misunderstand that though. The Habs have a good amount of skill in the top-half of their lineup and are capable of making you pay for your mistakes.