Winnipeg Jets vs Montréal Canadiens Picks and Predictions December 14th 2024

Jets trying to find their footing again, face lowly Canadiens

An all-Canadian clash takes center stage Saturday night as the Winnipeg Jets host the Montreal Canadiens at Canada Life Centre. Both teams are desperate to regain their footing after recent setbacks, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup.

Sign Up

Jets: Highs and Lows in Search of Consistency

The Jets have shown flashes of brilliance but struggle to maintain their momentum. Following an electrifying 8-1 win over the Boston Bruins on Tuesday, Winnipeg stumbled in a 3-2 overtime loss to the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday.

What Went Wrong?
The Jets faltered late in the game, conceding a tying goal during a 5-on-3 penalty kill and eventually losing in overtime. Head coach Scott Arniel highlighted a lack of aggression and execution as key issues.

“We didn’t attack like they attacked,” Arniel said postgame. “There’s a way we need to play to create offense and limit opportunities. We have to stick to that plan more consistently.”

A Bright Spot:
Rookie forward Nikita Chibrikov has been a revelation. The 20-year-old set a franchise record by scoring in each of his first three NHL games. His creativity and poise have drawn praise from teammates, including Josh Morrissey, who lauded Chibrikov’s smooth transition from the minors.

“He’s making plays that you don’t often see from rookies,” Morrissey said. “Hopefully, he keeps that pace up.”

Canadiens Struggle After Stunning Collapse

Montreal arrives in Winnipeg licking its wounds after a demoralizing 9-2 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. A disastrous third period saw the Canadiens concede six goals, prompting introspection from both players and coaches.

Head coach Martin St. Louis characterized the loss as a painful but necessary learning experience for his young team.

“Every play matters in this league,” St. Louis said. “Moments like these are part of our growth, but they can’t keep happening.”

Leadership on Display:
Despite the setback, captain Nick Suzuki continues to deliver. With 30 points (11 goals, 19 assists), Suzuki is riding an eight-game point streak (four goals, seven assists) and remains Montreal’s offensive cornerstone.

Veteran forward Brendan Gallagher voiced optimism about the team’s ability to respond:
“It’s frustrating, but this is a chance to bounce back. I trust our group to give a better effort in Winnipeg.”

Daily NHL Picks & Predictions

Injury Updates: Key Absences for Both Teams

Injuries could play a significant role in this matchup:

• Winnipeg: Defenseman Dylan Samberg (broken foot) remains out, and Nikolaj Ehlers is skating again but has yet to progress toward game action.
• Montreal: Defenseman David Savard missed Thursday’s game with an upper-body injury and is questionable for Saturday.

Keys to the Game

1. Special Teams Efficiency:
   Winnipeg’s struggles on the penalty kill against Vegas could be a vulnerability if Montreal capitalizes on their power-play opportunities. The Jets will need to stay disciplined and improve their situational play.
2. Consistency and Energy:
   For Winnipeg, maintaining an aggressive, attacking style throughout the game is critical. Montreal, on the other hand, must limit defensive lapses and stay engaged for all three periods.
3. Impact Players:
   • Winnipeg: Rookie sensation Nikita Chibrikov is a player to watch. Can he extend his goal streak?
   • Montreal: Nick Suzuki’s offensive consistency and leadership will be vital in galvanizing his team.

The Bigger Picture

This game holds significant implications for both teams. For the Jets, it’s about proving they can build on their strengths and smooth out inconsistencies. For the Canadiens, it’s a chance to right the ship and prevent their season from spiraling further.

With rising stars like Chibrikov and established talents like Suzuki at the forefront, fans can expect a spirited battle. Whether it’s Winnipeg’s dynamic offense or Montreal’s determination to recover, this matchup promises a captivating storyline on the ice.

Predicted Outcome:
While both teams are motivated, Winnipeg’s home advantage and the spark from Chibrikov might give the Jets the edge. If Montreal can tighten its defense, however, an upset could be in the cards.