Image by ArtTower from Pixabay

IN PHOTOS: Playoff excitement builds outside Bell Centre ahead of Canadiens-Sabres Game 6

The playoff atmosphere around the Bell Centre was already in full swing hours before puck drop Saturday, as Canadiens fans flooded downtown Montreal ahead of Game 6 against the Buffalo Sabres.

Supporters wearing red, white and blue gathered throughout the afternoon along Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal to take part in pregame festivities, wave flags and cheer on the team as excitement continued to build.

Large crowds formed outside the arena as fans looked to rally behind the Canadiens, who will have a chance to clinch a spot in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Puck drop is set for 8 p.m. on Citytv and SportsNet.