This is an 8* PUCKLINE PLAY on the Montreal Canadiens.

Just a great spot for Montreal here. Both teams have been playing great, but the Habs are for sure playing their best hockey of the season so far and they do in fact catch the Capitals at the "correct" time in my estimation.

Montreal is 19-18 after winning four of its last five. It's won back-to-back extra time contests, most recently a 5-4 OT victory over Vancouver. But that was four nights ago, so the Habs are well-rested here.

They play with revenge as well after a 4-2 loss to Washington at home back on December 7th.

The Capitals are 27-10 and have been trading wins/losses over their last six games. They're off a tough 2-1 OT win over Vanvouver as well. But with a game at Nashville the following night, not only does this one set up as a bit of a letdown spot in my opinion, but also a "look ahead."

Trap game for the home side, while the revenge-minded visitors look to sneak in steal this one outright.

That said, the official call is to play MONTREAL on the PUCKLINE option.

Good luck, NP