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Montreal (28-16-7) at Boston (29-20-2)
- When: Jan 24 2026, 7:00 PM
- Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA, USA
- TV: NESN
Montreal vs Boston NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Boston -115
Spread: Boston -1.5 (+210)
Total: 6.5
Boston Bruins Betting Breakdown
Boston handled its first test of this homestand the hard way, which might be exactly what this team needed. After a rough outing earlier in the week, the Bruins responded with a fast start and just enough finish to knock off one of the league’s elite teams at TD Garden. That win reinforced what has already been clear all season. Boston is extremely comfortable at home.
The Bruins have quietly turned TD Garden into a problem for visiting teams, stacking home wins through strong special teams and early pressure. When Boston gets a lead, they force opponents to chase the game, and that usually plays into their structure. The offense has been clicking lately, especially on the power play, and the confidence level in this building is high.
That said, Boston has shown some vulnerability when protecting late leads. Third period lapses have crept in, and against a rival that thrives on counterpunching, that cannot be ignored. Still, the Bruins’ ability to dictate pace early gives them a clear edge in this matchup.
From a betting perspective, Boston’s home form makes them worthy of a short moneyline price, especially against a divisional opponent that will be dealing with pressure from the opening faceoff.
Montreal Canadiens Betting Breakdown
Montreal arrives in Boston looking to reset after falling behind early in its last outing. Despite strong shot volume and extended zone time, the Canadiens spent most of that game playing catch up, which has been a recurring issue when their starts are sluggish.
The Canadiens have been one of the league’s better road teams, showing comfort away from home and an ability to stay competitive even when trailing. They already proved they can score against Boston earlier this season, and confidence should not be an issue. Montreal’s offense is capable of quick strikes, and when they get rolling, games tend to open up.
The concern is discipline and defensive coverage early. Falling behind in this building is dangerous, especially against a Bruins team that feeds off momentum and crowd energy. Montreal needs to avoid another slow start or this game could get away from them quickly.
For bettors, Montreal offers some intrigue as a road team, but the margin for error is thin against a Bruins squad playing its best hockey at home.
NHL Prediction and Betting Outlook
This matchup profiles as competitive, but Boston’s home dominance and early scoring tendencies give them the advantage. Montreal can generate chances, but Boston’s ability to jump out early should tilt the ice just enough. Expect pressure from the opening puck drop and a tighter defensive effort late.
The total sits in a reasonable range given both teams’ offensive potential, but Boston’s structure at home leans slightly toward the under.
Score Prediction: Bruins 4, Canadiens 2
Pick: Boston (-115)
Total: Under 6.5 (-110)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
