Detroit (36-33-7) at Montreal (38-30-9)
- When: Apr 8 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Bell Centre, Montreal, QC, CAN
- TV: FDSDETX
Red Wings vs Canadiens Preview & Prediction
Montreal Moneyline -122 | Total: 6.0
The Montreal Canadiens enter Tuesday night’s clash as -122 moneyline favorites and are aiming to all but slam the door shut on the Detroit Red Wings’ playoff chances. The total is set at 6.0 goals for what could be one of the most pivotal games of the season for both clubs.
Montreal Canadiens Outlook
Riding a five-game win streak and holding firm to the final wild-card spot in the East, the Canadiens (38-30-9, 85 points) know this isn’t a do-or-die moment mathematically—but it’s pretty close in practice. A regulation win over Detroit would give them an eight-point cushion with only four games left for Montreal and five for Detroit, essentially putting the Red Wings on life support. Cole Caufield and the rest of the Habs have been locked in, and they’re thriving at the right time.
Sam Montembeault has been a rock in net, giving up two or fewer goals in four straight before backup Jakub Dobes stepped in and turned aside 36 shots in Sunday’s 2-1 win over the Predators. With goaltending holding strong and the offense doing just enough, Montreal is finding ways to grind out results when it matters most.
Detroit Red Wings Outlook
Detroit (36-33-7, 79 points) may have a game in hand, but the math starts to look bleak without two points Tuesday. The Red Wings have collected points in four straight games (3-0-1), including a gritty OT loss in St. Louis. Veteran goalie Cam Talbot has been dialed in, allowing just seven goals across the last four games and keeping his team alive with clutch saves.
But the challenge ahead is tough—five of Detroit’s last six are on the road, starting with this crucial game in Montreal. If they want to stay in the race, they need a regulation win here. Anything less, and their postseason hopes may vanish.
Betting Trends & Prediction
The Canadiens are 6-1 in their last seven games at home.
Detroit is 2-5 in their last seven on the road.
The under has hit in five of Montreal’s last six games.
Pick: Canadiens ML (-122)
With momentum, home-ice advantage, and better recent form in their corner, Montreal looks like the right side in this must-win scenario. Expect another tight, low-scoring battle where the Canadiens’ defensive structure and goaltending edge help them inch closer to clinching.
Score Prediction: Canadiens 3, Red Wings 2
Lean: Under 6.0 (-120)
- NHL Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
