Montreal Canadiens Defenseman Arber Xhekaj Bell Centre (Image via David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire)
Montreal Canadiens Defenseman Arber Xhekaj Bell Centre (Image via David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire)
The Montreal Canadiens made a late and surprising change in their preparation before the important Game 5 against the Buffalo Sabres in Buffalo.
Both teams knew the match was very important, as it could decide their playoff run. But just hours before leaving, the Canadiens reportedly changed their planned and pre-game routine, adding an unexpected twist to their preparation.
Stu Cowan of the Gazette reported the information on social media earlier. The Canadiens cancelled their Wednesday morning practice in Brossard. Instead, they will focus on rest and travel, flying to Buffalo in the afternoon to prepare for Game 5 on Thursday, prioritizing recovery over on-ice practice.
May 12, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson (48) plays the puck and Buffalo Sabres defenseman Mattias Samuelsson (23) defends during the third period in game four of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
May 12, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson (48) plays the puck and Buffalo Sabres defenseman Mattias Samuelsson (23) defends during the third period in game four of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
The decision came after Game 4 between the Canadiens and the Sabres. The coach of the Montreal Canadiens, Martin St. Louis, must have felt that resting over practicing could be the safe bet at the moment, as his players needed mental recovery after tough games.
The team has already played four intense games in Round 2 and 7 hard-fought games against the Lightning earlier. So extra rest helps avoid injuries and keeps them fresh for the important game in Buffalo.
For the Canadiens, the decision indicates a willingness to adapt rather than stick rigidly to routine, especially with the pressure mounting after a loss in Game 4.
Montreal Canadiens Lose Game 4 as Series Hangs in Balance
The Montreal Canadiens earned a spot in Round 2 after winning a hard-fought, close Round 1 series against the Tampa Bay Lightning. They started Round 2 with a loss against the Buffalo Sabres.
But, they went on to win the next two games, and at one stage, it looked like they were set for the series win without losing any more games.
However, in Game 4, the Sabres made a strong comeback and won a close game by 3-2. Now, the Sabres will play Game 5 at their home. So it will help them as far as fans' support is concerned.
A tough task ahead for the Canadiens, and if they lose the game, they will be the ones who are chasing the series.
Game 5 will happen in Buffalo on May 14. The focus has now shifted from just on-ice tactics to how both teams handle pressure, preparation, and quick changes.
It will only be clear after the puck drops in Buffalo whether the Montreal Canadiens’ late change helps or hurts them. Now every decision matters more, both on and off the ice, because the series is very close.
So, which way do you think this move will go for the Canadiens, positive or negative?
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Written by
Kapil Manghnani
Edited by
Souvik Roy