The St. Louis Blues host the Montreal Canadiens tonight at Enterprise Center in a non-conference matchup, with puck drop set for 7 p.m. CT. The Blues enter at 5-5-1 (11 points, sixth in the Central Division), while the Canadiens arrive at 6-3-2 (14 points, fifth in the Atlantic).
St. Louis is coming off a 4-0 shutout loss to the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday, a result head coach Jim Montgomery described as “very humbling.” The Blues generated quality chances early but were outworked by the defending Stanley Cup champions. Prior to that, they had taken consecutive home wins over the Winnipeg Jets (2-1) and Vegas Golden Knights (6-2). Montreal, meanwhile, is on a two-game winning streak after a 2-1 victory over the Jets in the Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic and a 4-1 win in Chicago.
The matchup features contrasting special-teams profiles. The Blues rank 10th in the league on the power play (24.1%) and penalty kill (82.8%). The Canadiens’ power play sits near the bottom at 12.5% (28th), while their penalty kill is a respectable 82.6% (12th). Both teams average roughly 3.1–3.2 goals per game, with the Blues at 3.18 for and against.
Player to Watch: Mason McTavish
The 23-year-old forward has been one of St. Louis’ most productive players early, sharing the team lead with six goals and 10 points in 11 games. Acquired from the Anaheim Ducks, McTavish has already recorded three game-winning goals. He has faced Montreal seven times in his career, posting four goals and three assists. With the Canadiens missing key pieces, McTavish’s ability to drive play and finish chances could prove decisive.
Montreal will be without captain Nick Suzuki (upper body, week-to-week), Ivan Demidov (lower body, day-to-day), and goaltender Samuel Montembeault (lower body, IR). Cole Caufield (six goals) and defenseman Lane Hutson remain significant threats. The Blues also have several players on injured reserve, including Torey Krug (ankle), Dillon Dube (neck), and others, though the core of Robert Thomas, Dylan Holloway, and Jimmy Snuggerud remains available.
Historically, the Blues have controlled the recent series, sweeping Montreal last season and winning three straight home games against them. They are 4-1-0 in their last five home meetings with the Canadiens. Joel Hofer (4-3-1, 2.40 GAA, .917 SV% in eight starts) is expected in net for St. Louis, while Montreal will likely turn to the hot-starting Jacob Fowler.
With home-ice advantage, a stronger power play, and a Canadiens lineup missing its top center and a dynamic young forward, the Blues have a clear opportunity to snap their one-game skid and build momentum during this homestand. Success will hinge on sustained five-on-five pressure and capitalizing on special-teams chances.
Game Info
Where: Enterprise Center, St. Louis
When: Tonight, 7 p.m. CT
TV: Blue Note+
Radio: 101 ESPN
