The Montreal Canadiens are back in action Sunday night at the Bell Centre for Game 4 against the Tampa Bay Lightning, holding a 2-1 series lead in a tightly contested first-round matchup that has seen all three games decided in overtime.
The puck drops at 7:00 p.m. in Montreal, with the Canadiens looking to build on momentum from their 3-2 overtime win in Game 3.
Lane Hutson’s overtime winner in Game 3 delivered the victory and gave Montreal the edge in the series.
The Canadiens also backed it up with a disciplined defensive effort, limiting Tampa Bay to just 17 shots on goal in a tightly contested game.
With a second straight home game, large crowds are expected around the Bell Centre ahead of puck drop, continuing the playoff atmosphere seen earlier in the week.
Fans are encouraged to be in their seats ahead of the game to take in pregame festivities, with rally towels placed throughout the arena for attendees.
Outdoor fan gatherings are also expected to draw crowds near the venue before the game.
The official Habs Watch Party — Street Edition on Avenue des Canadiens required advance reservations and is now sold out.
A Fan Jam at Canadiens Plaza will run from 5 p.m. until puck drop, offering food, music, and interactive activities for fans on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Game 4 marks another key turning point, with Montreal aiming to extend its series advantage while Tampa Bay looks to rebound and even things up.
Discipline remains a factor for both teams. The Canadiens allowed five power-play opportunities in Game 3, managing to limit the damage, but will need to tighten up to avoid giving Tampa Bay additional chances.
Depth has also played a major role through the first three games, with different players stepping up each night — a trend Montreal will look to continue.
Lane Hutson will once again be in focus after his overtime heroics in Game 3.
For Tampa Bay, Brayden Point opened his playoff scoring in the last game and remains a key offensive threat capable of shifting momentum.
The two teams split their regular season series, while the playoff matchup has remained razor-thin:
With every game requiring extra time so far, another high-intensity, closely fought contest is expected Sunday night as the series continues to tighten.
