The NHL season kicks off with a classic rivalry as the Montreal Canadiens visit the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena on September 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET.
Why it matters: This matchup marks the beginning of the 2026-27 NHL season for both teams, setting the tone for their campaigns. The Canadiens aim to build on last season's success, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, whereas the Maple Leafs look to rebound from a disappointing year.
- Both teams start the season 0-0-0, eager to establish momentum from the outset.
- Montreal's roster includes key players like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and new addition Chris Kreider.
- Toronto features returning stars Auston Matthews and William Nylander, alongside top prospect Gavin McKenna making his NHL debut.
Driving the news: The game is part of the NHL's opening night festivities, highlighting a historic rivalry that has captivated fans for decades. The matchup draws attention for its significance and for the expectations surrounding both teams.
- The Canadiens finished last season with a 48-24-10 record, demonstrating strong playoff potential.
- Toronto, on the other hand, struggled with a 32-36-14 record, prompting major roster changes in the offseason.
- Both teams have made strategic additions, including Toronto's acquisition of veteran goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky.
State of play: The Maple Leafs will look to leverage their home-ice advantage against a Canadiens team that has historically struggled at Scotiabank Arena.
- Toronto holds a dominant 16-2-3 record against Montreal at home since 2016, including a 10-game winning streak in home openers.
- Montreal has been successful on the road recently, boasting a 13-5 record in their last 18 away games.
- The betting odds indicate a close contest, with Montreal slightly favored at -110 compared to Toronto's -113.
The big picture: As the NHL season begins, both teams are under pressure to perform well and meet fan expectations.
- The Canadiens aim to capitalize on their strong finish last season, hoping to secure a win against a rival in their opening match.
- Toronto's offseason changes, including the addition of Kirill Marchenko and the drafting of Gavin McKenna, have generated excitement among fans.
- Expectations are high for Matthews, who seeks to bounce back after failing to reach 30 goals last season.
What they're saying: Players and coaching staff from both teams expressed their enthusiasm ahead of the season opener.
- Auston Matthews spoke about the team's motivation to start strong, emphasizing the importance of the home opener.
- "We want to set the tone for the season right from the start," Matthews said.
- Montreal's coach highlighted the team's readiness to face a formidable opponent, stating that they are excited to compete.
By the numbers: Key statistics provide insight into the matchup and potential outcomes.
- William Nylander had 78 points last season, including 30 goals and 48 assists.
- Jakub Dobes, the Canadiens' goaltender, posted a record of 29-10-4 last season, with a 2.8 goals-against average and .901 save percentage.
- Toronto's Sergei Bobrovsky recorded a 27-23-1 record last season, conceding 154 goals with a 3.1 goals-against average.
What's next: Following the season opener, both teams will look to build on their performances in the coming weeks.
- Montreal hopes to maintain momentum against other division rivals, aiming for a strong start to the season.
- Toronto will seek to improve on last season's struggles, with upcoming games providing opportunities for redemption.
- Expectations will remain high for both teams as they navigate the challenges of an 84-game regular season.
The Canadiens and Maple Leafs are set to deliver an exciting start to the NHL season, with both teams eager to claim victory in this storied rivalry.