Montreal is much improved this season. However, the Canadiens are coming off their worst loss of the season. They were buried 7-1 on the road by the Wild this past Tuesday. That was the finale of a three-game road trip. Montreal had defeated the Senators and Blackhawks during the first two legs of the trip.The Canadiens are really pointing to this matchup following that humiliating defeat to Minnesota. They also have revenge for a 2-1 home loss suffered to Carolina on Nov. 27.

The Canadiens also had backup goalie Antti Niemi in net during that loss to the Wild. Carey Price will be back in goal for Montreal today. Price is having a good comeback season. The Canadiens are far from an elite team. But neither are the Hurricanes, who rank last in scoring. The Hurricanes have scored more than two goals only once in their last seven games. They have scored one goal or fewer in five of their last seven games. Carolina also is banged-up.

The spot and opponent set up for Montreal to gain back its self-respect.