Game Preview: Canadiens vs. Islanders

[Habsfan84]

Sep 21, 2007, 7:30 PM (ET)

MONTREAL – After a day off following Wednesday’s 3-1 loss in Moncton, the Canadiens kick off another series of three straight games tonight. Guy Carbonneau’s crew will look to avenge their most recent loss when they host the Islanders in a rematch tonight at the Bell Centre. Sergei Kostitsyn beat goaltender Wade Dubielewicz with a shot from the slot for Montreal’s only goal of the night on Wednesday.

Flying solo: Carey Price has been handed the goaltending reigns for tonight’s contest. The 20-year-old will be making his second preseason appearance, after splitting the crease with Jaroslav Halak Tuesday night against the Penguins.

Power outage: For the first time in three games this preseason, the Canadiens were unable to convert with the man advantage. The Habs had seven power-play opportunities, including four in the second half of the third period. Andrei Kostitsyn and Bryan Smolinski each lit the lamp with the extra attacker on Monday and Tuesday, respectively.

Youth vs. experience: After facing Bill Guerin, Mike Comrie and Mike Sillinger on Wednesday, the Canadiens can expect a younger Islanders lineup tonight. As for the Canadiens, only five members from Wednesday’s tilt will be dressed when the team hits the ice. Fans will also get their first look at centre Ben Maxwell, who until now had been sidelined with a strained thigh.

canadiens.com