Montreal Canadiens vs. Anaheim Ducks Prediction, Preview, and Odds

The Montreal Canadiens, with a record of 7-9-2, face off against the Anaheim Ducks, who are at 9-9-0. This matchup on November 22 at 10:00 PM ET promises a riveting game of hockey. The Canadiens, struggling in the Atlantic, meet the Ducks, who are holding their own in the Pacific. The Ducks are on a four-game losing streak after a 5-2 road loss against the Boston Bruins on Saturday while the Ducks are on a three-game losing streak after a 3-1 home loss against the St. Louis Blues on Sunday. With both teams showing mixed forms, this game at the Honda Center becomes a pivotal moment in their seasons.

Seeking Redemption

The Montreal Canadiens, navigating through a challenging season, hold a record of 7-9-2, placing them last in the Atlantic Division. Their recent form has been a mix of highs and lows, as evidenced by their last five games where they recorded two wins and three losses. In these matches, their scoring inconsistency and defensive lapses were apparent. The Canadiens, with 16 points from center Nick Suzuki leading in points have struggled to find a consistent offensive rhythm, averaging 2.83 goals per game, ranking them 23rd in the NHL. Their shooting game, averaging 29.4 shots per game (25th), needs improvement for better goal conversion.

Defensively, the Canadiens have been porous, allowing an average of 3.56 goals against per game, placing them 25th in the league. This is compounded by their high number of shots against, averaging 34.9 per game, the 30th in the NHL. Their penalty kill percentage stands at a concerning 74.4% (25th), though their faceoff win rate is a notable 52.4% (ninth). Injuries have also impacted their lineup, with key players like Rafael Harvey-Pinard and Arber Xhekaj sidelined, adding to their defensive woes. Goaltender Jake Allen, with a save percentage of 0.907 and a goals-against average of 3.54, along with Sam Montembeault (0.908 save percentage and 2.78 goals allowed average), have been under constant pressure due to the team's defensive struggles.

The Canadiens' power play efficiency stands at 20.0% (17th), offering a glimpse of their offensive potential. However, they need to leverage this more effectively to improve their goal-scoring abilities. Their high penalty minutes, totaling 232, indicate a need for better discipline on the ice. As the Canadiens look to the upcoming games, their focus must be on tightening their defense, enhancing their shooting accuracy, and capitalizing on power play opportunities to climb up the standings and regain their competitive edge.

Holding the Fort

The Anaheim Ducks, holding a record of 9-9-0, find themselves in a relatively stable position, fifth in the Pacific Division. Their recent performances have been a mix, as they are 3-2 in their last five games, showcasing some resilience but also highlighting areas needing improvement. The Ducks’ goal-scoring has been moderate with an average of 2.83 goals per game (23rd in the NHL), led by their top scorers and playmakers. They have managed to keep up in games despite a relatively low shot average of 28.9 per game, ranking 28th in the league.

Defensively, the Ducks have been middling, conceding 3.11 goals against per game, placing them 12th overall. This statistic is particularly crucial as it reflects their ability to manage games effectively. Their penalty kill has been a strong point, with an 84.2% success rate (16th), showing their resilience when down a man. However, the injuries to key players like Trevor Zegras and Jamie Drysdale have posed challenges, potentially affecting their defensive cohesion. The goaltending duo of Lukas Dostal (0.893 SV% and 3.78 GAA) and John Gibson (0.926 SV% and 2.27 GAA) has been pivotal in keeping the Ducks competitive in tight games.

Anaheim’s power play has been effective, with a 19.7% conversion rate (18th in the NHL), suggesting their capability to exploit opportunities. Their faceoff win percentage, however, stands at 46.8% (27th), indicating room for improvement in gaining possession. The Ducks have accrued a high number of penalty minutes (253), which underscores the need for more disciplined play. Moving forward, the Ducks must focus on enhancing their shot creation, maintaining their solid penalty kill, and reducing penalty minutes to strengthen their position in the Pacific Division and secure more victories.

Best Bets

Full-Game Side Bet

Rating:

The Anaheim Ducks, with their balanced play and resilience, are the pick to triumph over the Montreal Canadiens. Anaheim’s penalty kill, effective at 81.7%, stands out against Montreal's weaker 74.4%, suggesting the Ducks’ ability to withstand pressure situations better. This aspect could be pivotal in a game where both teams have shown a propensity to concede penalties. The Ducks' defensive play, conceding 3.11 goals per game, though not stellar, is better positioned against Montreal's 3.56. This, combined with Anaheim's ability to execute on power plays, positions them favorably to clinch the victory in this matchup.

Take the Ducks with the money line.

Prediction: Anaheim Ducks -134

Full-Game Total Pick

Rating:

For the Montreal Canadiens vs. Anaheim Ducks game, the prediction leans towards a total score going over. Both teams have shown a trend of being involved in high-scoring games, with Montreal's defense allowing an average of 3.56 goals per game and Anaheim’s at 3.11. This vulnerability in both defenses suggests that there could be multiple scoring opportunities throughout the game. The Canadiens, despite their struggles, have the capability to find the net, especially if they can capitalize on their power play chances, where they have a 20.0% success rate. Considering these factors, the game is likely to feature a number of goals from both sides, pushing the total score over the set line.

Take the over.

Prediction: OVER 6.5

From an early age, Justin knew he would be involved with sports in some way shape, or form. Justin played baseball in high school as well as basketball. He also coached basketball during summer vacations for local recreational organizations throughout high school. In college, he began writing for the school newspaper, both news articles as well as sports but soon discovered sports was his vocation. For the last seven years, he has written sports editorials for both hard copy newspapers as well as online sites and has now joined our team here at StatSalt. He has a deep passion for breaking down the games and also being on them. Be sure and follow along with Justin on a daily basis as he will point you in the right way.