The habs have the fourth most difficult schedule for the rest of the season

Michaël Petit
The habs have the fourth most difficult schedule for the rest of the season
Credit: Getty Images

Once half the season is over, it's always very interesting to see what each team's schedule will look like for the rest of the season.

Not to say that a statistically easier schedule will be a walk in the park, but it certainly gives an edge.

The Montreal Canadiens have to compete in a very fierce Atlantic Division and, logically, their schedule should be pretty tough.

In fact, according to Tankathon, the Habs have the fourth-toughest schedule between now and the end of the season.

Of the lot, the Montreal club will have to face the mighty Tampa Bay Lightning twice.

(Credit: Screenshot | Tankathon)

It's important to understand that this ranking is based on the average percentage of points obtained by each team's opponents.

The Lightning are simply unstoppable these days. Jon Cooper's team has won 13 of its last 14 games. The Carolina Hurricanes should also not be overlooked, as they are in first place in the Metropolitan Division.

The Colorado Avalanche may not be doing so well these days, but they're still a league power and the Habs will have to face them once.

In the west, the Habs will also face the Minnesota Wild, a fairly dangerous team (28-14-9), as will the Vegas Golden Knights.

Fortunately for the Habs, they'll be able to count on the return of a few players eventually, such as Alexandre Texier, Patrik Laine, and Alex Newhook (a little later in his case). However, choices will have to be made to remove players from the lineup to make room for these players.

There are plenty of rumors that Laine will be traded before the trade deadline, and other rumors about a possible upgrade to the lineup. Of course, we could be talking about a physical forward or a top-6 forward.

A forward will certainly be welcome at the end of the season. The race in the Atlantic will certainly be very intense between now and the end of the season.

However, to have the best chance of finishing in a strong position in the standings, the Habs' goalies will have to play their best hockey. The Habs will also have to learn not to always come from behind.


Overtime

– It's hard not to believe.

– Wow, the Snake doesn't pull any punches.

– It's looking more and more like a fire sale in St. Louis.

– A very nice milestone for the Columbus Blue Jackets player.

– Professional hockey will return to Hamilton, Ontario.

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