Lindy Ruff discusses the three factors that make the Habs a formidable opponent

Marc-Olivier Cook
Lindy Ruff discusses the three factors that make the Habs a formidable opponent
Credit: Capture d'écran / X

The second-round series between the Montreal Canadiens and the Buffalo Sabres kicks off tomorrow night.

What's your prediction?

Obviously, every team has its strengths, and they'll need to use them if they hope to advance to the next round. And Lindy Ruff knows exactly why the Canadiens are a formidable opponent for his team.

The Sabres' head coach praised the Canadiens, citing three factors that contribute to the team's success. Ruff highlighted Jakub Dobes's work, the quality of the Canadiens' top line, and the fact that the team's defense is mobile.

Ruff also mentioned that there's “a guy who's very hard to keep up with on the ice” on the Canadiens' defense, and it's clear he's referring to Lane Hutson.

At least, I don't think he's referring to the Sheriff or Jayden Struble… 

In fact, Lindy Ruff is right.

1. Jakub Dobes is having a truly sensational playoff run. He's the Canadiens' MVP right now (no doubt about it) and he'll have to play a major role in the series against the Sabres if the Habs want to advance to the next round.

2. It's true that the Canadiens have a strong first line. But… the thing is, Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky seem to be struggling to find their rhythm at even strength.

They were back together, on the same line, at practice this morning. It remains to be seen if they can get things going…

3. The addition of Noah Dobson to the defensive corps is a game-changer. He may not be at 100% yet, but he's still a key part of Martin St-Louis' lineup. And as for Lane Hutson, everyone knows just how much he can change a game all on his own when he decides to control the puck the way he does so well…

But still. It's going to take even more to beat the Sabres because they'll want to send a message to the rest of the National Hockey League, too.

The Canadiens will need everyone to step up to beat Buffalo. And some guys are going to have to step up…


In a nutshell

– I can't wait to see this.

– Oh.

– I like that.

– Great move!

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