Predictions Montreal Canadiens vs Ottawa Senators | NHL 17.01.26

Montreal Canadiens vs Ottawa Senators Game Analysis | 18-01-2026 | NHL

This regular-season matchup on 18-01-2026 at 12:00 AM at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa pits the Montreal Canadiens (26-15-7) against the Ottawa Senators (22-19-5) in a crucial divisional clash. Both teams are fighting for positioning, with Montreal looking to solidify its playoff standing and Ottawa aiming to close the gap.

Montreal Canadiens Team Performance

The Montreal Canadiens enter this matchup with a commendable 26-15-7 record, showcasing a blend of offensive firepower and structural solidity. Their success has been largely driven by the dynamic trio of Nick Suzuki (52 points), Cole Caufield (22 goals), and the impressive offensive contributions from defenseman Lane Hutson (39 assists). However, the team faces significant challenges with key injuries. The absence of Patrik Laine (abdomen) removes a premier sniper and power-play threat, while Jake Evans (lower body) leaves a notable void in their bottom-six forward group and penalty-killing efficiency. These absences could test their depth and defensive resilience, especially on the road.

Montreal Canadiens Key Players

• Points: Nick Suzuki (52)
• Goals: Cole Caufield (22)
• Assists: Lane Hutson (39)

Injury Report Montreal Canadiens

• Patrik Laine (Injured reserve): Laine (abdomen) is practicing Saturday in a non-contact jersey, indicating he is still sidelined but progressing.
• Jake Evans (Injured reserve): Evans (lower body) is expected to miss the next 4-6 weeks, a significant blow to their forward depth.

Ottawa Senators Team Performance

The Ottawa Senators, holding a 22-19-5 record, have endured an inconsistent season, often struggling to string together victories. Their offensive output is heavily concentrated around the exceptional talent of Tim Stutzle, who leads the team across all major offensive categories with 47 points, 20 goals, and 27 assists. This reliance, while showcasing Stutzle’s brilliance, can make their attack somewhat predictable. The potential return of goaltender Linus Ullmark (returned to practice) is a pivotal development, offering a potential boost to their often-shaky netminding, though his immediate form after an absence remains a key question mark. Playing on home ice will be a significant factor for a team looking to climb back into playoff contention.

Ottawa Senators Key Players

• Points: Tim Stutzle (47)
• Goals: Tim Stutzle (20)
• Assists: Tim Stutzle (27)

Injury Report Ottawa Senators

• Linus Ullmark (Injured reserve): Ullmark returned to practice Friday for the first time since he was granted a leave of absence Dec. 28, suggesting he may be nearing a return but might not be at full game speed immediately.

Prediction: Montreal Canadiens vs Ottawa Senators

While Montreal boasts a superior record, the Ottawa Senators, playing at home, are predicted to secure a victory. The Senators’ desperation for points, coupled with the potential morale boost from Ullmark’s return to practice and Montreal’s significant injuries (especially Laine), could provide the necessary edge. Expect Tim Stutzle to be a driving force offensively. Given the offensive firepower on both sides and the potential for goaltending uncertainties (Ullmark’s rust, Montreal’s depth challenges), the total goals are predicted to be over 6.5.