Stanley Cup Playoffs: Montreal Canadiens vs. Philadelphia Flyers series preview

Players To Watch

Which players could determine the series?

Canadiens

On paper, Brendan Gallagher didn’t score any goals against the Penguins and only had one assist. However, he was still quite effective and fans should be optimistic he’ll make more of an impact in this series. Gallagher had 12 5v5 scoring chances, which led the Canadiens in the play-in round.

Furthermore, his 1.09 5v5 xG (expected goals) ranked seventh among all forwards in the play-in round and round-robin tournament. Expect a better series from Gallagher if he can keep generating chances. The Habs need him to be at his best.

Flyers

Scott Laughton could be a huge difference-maker in this series. His three 5v5 goals are currently tied with Pierre Luc-Dubois of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Furthermore, Laughton’s five even strength points are tied with Cam Atkinson and Sebastian Aho. It’s worth noting both Atkinson and Dubois have another game to play against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Prediction

Stylistically, the Canadiens could give the Flyers a bit of trouble if they possess the puck as well as they did during the regular season. But even then, I think Philly has enough skill and balance to be able to get the best of Montreal.

The Flyers have been arguably the best team in the postseason so far if you consider who they were playing. While the Carolina Hurricanes sure looked great, they were playing an extremely flawed New York Rangers team. The Flyers were playing the best teams in the east.

Prediction: Flyers in 6.