Toronto at Montreal

It is somewhat revealing that even though the Canadiens have lost five in a row, they are solid favorites against the Maple Leafs. This speaks to Montreal's improvement this season despite the losing skid. It also lays bare Toronto's struggles. The Maple Leafs have lost six of their last seven games. They are one of the most banged-up teams in the NHL, both up front and on the blue line. The absence of Matthew Knies, Auston Matthews, and Nicolas Roy has hurt their attack, and the defense is short-handed with Chris Tanev and Brandon Carlo both out. Toronto has been at its worst on the road, going 1-5. The Maple Leafs were away favorites in their last two road games against the Blackhawks and the Bruins, but lost both. Toronto did beat Montreal, 5-2, in the previous meeting this season at home on opening night. This is a monster rivalry, so don't think the Canadiens have forgotten about that loss. Take the Canadiens.