Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The Montreal Canadiens have captured fans’ attention with a talented roster and exciting style of play that has recently started to deliver results. Their next challenge is a home matchup against the Winnipeg Jets, one of the Western Conference’s dominant forces.
Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens are performing much better than they were at the start of the season, but there are still plenty of reasons for scepticism. Martin St. Louis’ entertaining hockey philosophy leaves the team vulnerable in their defensive zone. The Canadiens have lost the xG battle in six of their last eight games, and they have allowed a staggering 14.2 expected goals over their past three matches. With such defensive frailty, it’s hard to take their playoff hopes seriously.
Winnipeg Jets
The Jets are well-equipped to capitalise on the Canadiens’ defensive weaknesses. They boast the second-best offence in the NHL, averaging 3.53 goals per game. Kyle Connor is in phenomenal form (27+36), aiming for his first 100-point season. Beyond Connor, the Jets feature three other forwards with 15+ goals this season, while top defenceman Josh Morrissey (5+37) is on pace to set a personal record for assists, potentially reaching 60.
Montreal Canadiens vs Winnipeg Jets Prediction
The Montreal Canadiens’ defensive issues are impossible to ignore over the long term. In their only previous meeting this season, the Winnipeg Jets comfortably scored four goals (4:2) in December. The hosts are unlikely to withstand the onslaught from the Jets’ elite forward group.
