Welcome back to another NHL Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word on Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out.

Montreal Canadiens (1-1, in the Atlantic Division) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (0-1-1, in the Central Division) Chicago; Saturday, 7 p.m. EDT BOTTOM LINE: The Chicago Blackhawks take on the Montreal Canadiens in a non-conference matchup.

Montreal Canadiens rookie Oliver Kapanen scored his first career goal in a big spot against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Montreal Canadiens had a disappointing start to their season, losing their first game of the 2025-26 NHL season to the Toronto Maple Leafs, 5-2, at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday night.

Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis is demanding more urgency from his team, and especially one player in particular.

The Canadiens lost to the Maple Leafs 5-2 in the season-opener, but provided some hints of some different looks we might see this season.

The hottest spotlight shone throughout the season on Calder Trophy-winning defenseman Lane Hutson. With 66 points (six goals, 60 assists) in 82 games, Hutson’s stellar maiden season saw him voted NHL rookie of the year as he very quickly became a fan favorite in Montreal.

According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the negotiations have not advanced, and he suggests both parties need a break. "I think this negotiation has gotten very emotional, and I think everybody needs a timeout," Friedman said on his podcast.