The Montreal Canadiens open the season this year against the Carolina Hurricanes. The Hurricanes are a team that really shocked the NHL last year with how they fought back, but also how the team ended up sweeping the Islanders out of the playoffs. The Canadiens did finish out the preseason decently with a 3-2 record in the last 5 games. The Hurricanes, ended the preseason with a 4 game losing skid that saw their defense really struggle and that could be a carry over issue for the Hurricanes.
With the Canadiens they do have Brendan Gallagher coming back to the ice this year as one of the major offensive players. However, the play of Gallagher could be pressed in this game here as he has not been able to lead the team on his own. Keith Kinkaid is the goalie who the Canadiens got last season, but the Canadiens have been able to get a total of 3 goalies who have started in the past for other teams.
The Hurricanes are bringing back Jordan Staal who has been able to play really well for the Hurricanes in the past. What else the Hurricanes have going for them is Sebastian Aho who has been able to really show his talent last year and is a force to be reckoned with on the year. Petr Mrazek is the goalie the Hurricanes have come to rely on last year and he is back for another season for the Hurricanes.
