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New York Rangers vs Montreal Canadians: 5 Players To Watch

By Kenneth Teape

Mar 4, 2017; New York, NY, USA; Montreal Canadiens left wing Max Pacioretty (67) and New York Rangers center Chris Kreider (21) battle for position during the third period at Madison Square Garden. Monteal won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; New York, NY, USA; Montreal Canadiens left wing Max Pacioretty (67) and New York Rangers center Chris Kreider (21) battle for position during the third period at Madison Square Garden. Monteal won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Rangers vs Montreal Canadians: 5 Players To Watch
Apr 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA;Montreal Canadiens left wing Max Pacioretty (67) skates with the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Max Pacioretty

The Canadiens had a middle of the road offense during the regular season. They averaged 2.7 goals per game, which ranked 15th in the NHL. The Rangers had a slightly above average defense, giving up 2.6 goals per game, which ranked 12th in the NHL.

If the Canadiens are going to crack the Rangers defense they will need Max Pacioretty to play well. Pacioretty was their leading scorer in the regular season with 67 points. He tallied a team-high 35 goals to go along with 32 assists, which ranked second on the team.

In the regular season, Pacioretty played well against the Rangers. He registered at least one point in all three games. In total, he scored one goal with four assists to pace the Canadiens against New York.

There was some concern over whether or not Pacioretty would be able to play. He was hit in the face with a stick during practice on Tuesday. But, he looks to have avoided any serious injury and should be good to go for the Canadiens tonight.

If Pacioretty is slowed down at all the Canadiens will be hard-pressed to replace him as he plays significant minutes on the top line and on the No.1 power play unit.

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