The Montreal Canadiens play 12 games in November, but fans should circle these three must-see contests on their calendar.
After missing out on the playoffs for the past three seasons, there's a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the Montreal Canadiens heading into the new season, especially with the addition of former 40-goal scorer Patrik Laine and the progression of Juraj Slafkovsky.
In November, the Canadiens will play 12 times, with five games at the Bell Centre and nine on the road. Here are three games that fans should look forward to in the season's second month.
3. November 7 at New Jersey Devils
It's unusual to say an early season game against the New Jersey Devils would be must-watch TV for a Canadiens fan. Still, their encounter on November 7 will be Sheldon Keefe's first matchup against Montreal since leaving Toronto and taking over the Devils.
Outside an epic playoff collapse in 2021, Keefe led the Maple Leafs to an impressive 14-4-4 record against the Canadiens during his four-and-a-half years behind the bench. Armed with a new offensive lineup featuring Jack Hughes and recently acquired goalie Jacob Markstrom, this rivalry has new storylines to follow.
2. November 14 at Minnesota Wild
The Canadiens will wrap up a four-game, seven-night road trip against the Minnesota Wild on November 14 at Xcel Energy Center.
Although these two clubs are not known rivals, this contest could hold special meaning as Wild netminder and Sorel, Quebec native Marc-Andre Fleury, could be playing in his final season, meaning this is one of the last times he could face the team he grew up watching.
As a long-time member of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Fleury has compiled a 27-13-6 record against Montreal, the fourth-most victories against any opponent over his 20-year career.
1. November 18 vs. Edmonton Oilers
Jan 13, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) plays the puck and Montreal Canadiens goalie Sam Montembeault (35) defends during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
Last year, the Canadiens and Edmonton Oilers met twice, and the Oilers took both contests in overtime, 2-1 and 3-2. Considering Edmonton went to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, Montreal, a young, inexperienced team, kept one of the game's best players and lineups grounded.
This November contest will mark the season's only visit for Connor McDavid, who has 32 points in 25 games against the Canadiens. Interestingly, he's minus-6 against Montreal, the third-worst total of his career against any opponent. Since 2015-16, Edmonton has had an edge in their regular-season meetings, 15-8-2.
