Pregame Preview: Canadiens at Hurricanes (Game #41)

 
Match Up:

The Canadiens (23-14-3) will finish up 2013 in Carolina with a match against the Hurricanes (14-16-9) on New Year's Eve. The game is set to start at 7:00 and airs on RDS.

This is the first of three games between the Habs and Canes. Last season the Habs swept all three games against the Hurricanes, earning 3-0, 4-2 and 4-1 victories. Carey Price earned two of the wins, but it was Peter Budaj that collected the shut out victory.

What to Watch:

Montreal's offense was held to just one goal yet again Sunday night against the Panthers. It was the seventh time in their past 9 games the Canadiens scored one goal or fewer, but even so, the team has managed to win 4 of those matches.

After a disappointing season last year, Jeff Skinner has gotten himself back on track and leads the Hurricanes in goals, despite missing 11 games already this season. With 14 goals and 24 points in 28 games, Skinner has already matched his point production from last season.

What's at Stake:

The Canadiens will want to end the calendar year on a high note. A struggling Hurricanes team should provide them with every opportunity to earn a victory, Carolina has just one win in their last 9 games.

Who's Out:

George Parros hasn't seen action since suffering a concussion earlier in the month, although he has been skating with the team. Davis Drewiske (shoulder) is out long term.

The Hurricanes are without Jiri Tlusty (appendix) and Jay Harrison (concussion).

What Else:

The Canadiens had themselves a pretty satisfying 2013, going 52-28-8 up to now. Carey Price has been one of the biggest reasons for Montreal's success, he's stopped 1948 pucks already in 2013, giving up just 160 goals for a .924 save percentage.

The Question Mark:

What do you expect to see from the Habs in the coming year?

Let us know what you think, leave a comment below or send us a message on Twitter using the #MTLHockey hashtag.

There is no Pregame or Post Game Show tonight, join us again Thursday when the Canadiens play the Dallas Stars for the Best Damn Uncensored Habs Coverage around.

Posted in: carey price,carolina hurricanes,montreal canadiens,peter budaj