The Montreal Canadiens, holding a record of 32-17-8, are set to kick off their post-Olympic break stretch run with a crucial Thursday night showdown against the New York Islanders, who stand at 32-21-5. The game will take place at the Bell Centre, with puck drop scheduled for 7 p.m. and coverage available on TSN, RDS, TSN Radio 690, and 98.5 FM.
Key Return and Lineup Adjustments
Forward Alex Newhook makes his highly anticipated return to the ice after being sidelined since November 13 due to a fractured ankle. Prior to his injury, Newhook had been a significant contributor, amassing 12 points across 17 games. His comeback adds depth and offensive firepower to the Canadiens' roster as they push for playoff positioning.
However, the forward group is experiencing a logjam, with Joe Veleno, Zachary Bolduc, and Patrik Laine, along with defenseman Jayden Struble, all slated to watch from the press box. This decision underscores the team's strategic adjustments and competitive depth heading into the final stretch of the season.
Goaltending and Division Standings
Samuel Montembeault will start in goal for the Canadiens, providing stability between the pipes. Currently, the Habs are tied for second place in the Atlantic Division with 72 points, highlighting their strong performance and playoff aspirations.
Notable Storylines and Player Motivations
The game also features intriguing subplots, including the return of Islanders winger Emil Heineman to Montreal. Heineman was involved in last summer's trade that sent Noah Dobson to New York, adding an emotional layer to the matchup.
Additionally, two Canadiens players are expected to be highly motivated following their Olympic experiences. Juraj Slafkovsky, who narrowly missed winning a medal for Slovakia, and captain Nick Suzuki, who secured a silver medal for Canada, bring renewed energy and determination to the ice.
Viewing Information and Updates
For fans, the Canadiens' 2025-26 season TV schedule provides details on how to catch the action, with alternatives available for those facing blackouts on TSN2 or RDS in Ontario and Western Canada. Follow along for live updates and game highlights, or join the conversation on the Hockey Inside Out YouTube channel livestream.
As the Canadiens and Islanders face off, this game marks a pivotal moment in the NHL season, with playoff implications and player comebacks taking center stage.
