The Montreal Canadiens prepared to face the Buffalo Sabres at the Bell Centre on Thursday, January 22, 2026 [5, 6, 9]. The game, a crucial divisional matchup, had significant implications for the Atlantic Division standings [5, 6].
Rivalry Renewed
The Canadiens, holding a record of 28-15-7 (63 points), aimed to widen their lead over the Sabres, who stood at 27-17-5 (59 points) [6, 7]. A win for Buffalo would narrow the gap to just two points [5]. The game was broadcast on ESPN+ and other networks [6, 7]. Ahead of the game, the Canadiens held an optional morning skate at the Bell Centre [9]. This marked the second meeting between the two teams that month [9].Edmundson's Return and Laine's Celebration
In other Canadiens news, defenseman Joel Edmundson was nearing a return to the lineup [8]. Meanwhile, forward Patrik Laine celebrated his wedding in Florida [1]. Pictures of Laine's wedding with Jordan Leigh surfaced on Instagram [1]. Former Canadiens star P.K. Subban has advocated for Lane Hutson to be part of the Norris Trophy conversation [4]. The Canadiens are currently undergoing what has been described as an "out-of-the-box rebuild" [2].TL;DR
- The Montreal Canadiens hosted the Buffalo Sabres at Bell Centre on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in a key divisional game [5, 6].
- A win for the Sabres would have brought them within two points of the Canadiens in the Atlantic Division standings [5].
- Patrik Laine celebrated his wedding in Florida, while Joel Edmundson was nearing his return [1, 8].
- Former Canadien P.K. Subban supports Lane Hutson for the Norris Trophy [4].