The Montreal Canadiens (31-17-8, 70 points) will host the Winnipeg Jets (22-25-8, 52 points) at Canada Life Centre on Wednesday, February 4, with a 7:00 pm EST faceoff. This Winnipeg Jets game preview highlights the key players and lineups, as well as insights into recent performances. Fans can watch the game on ESPN+, Sportsnet, or RDS, while radio coverage is available on TSN 690 and 680 CJOB.
Current Form of the Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens recently saw their three-game winning streak end in a 4-3 overtime loss to the Minnesota Wild on Monday, but they still hold a four-game overall winning streak. During this stretch, Montreal has been productive offensively, averaging 4.3 goals per game, while their defense has allowed 2.8 goals per game, reflecting a balanced team effort on both ends.
Performance Update on the Winnipeg Jets
The Jets dropped a tight 4-3 overtime decision to the Dallas Stars on Monday. Despite that loss, Winnipeg has secured points in three of their last four outings. The team has maintained an average of 2.5 goals per game over this period but has conceded an average of three goals per contest, showing areas for improvement in defense.
Projected Line Combinations for Montreal
Montreal’s expected forward lines include Caufield, Suzuki, and Dach on the top line, followed by Slafkovsky, Kapanen, and Demidov on the second. Veleno, Evans, and Bolduc make up the third group, with Anderson, Danault, and Gallagher rounding out the fourth. The defensive pairs are Hutson-Dobson, Matheson-Guhle, and Struble-Carrier, while Montembeault and Dobes will handle goaltending duties.
Expected Winnipeg Jets Lineup
Winnipeg’s forward lines will likely feature Connor, Scheifele, and Iafallo leading the attack, with Perfetti, Lowry, and Vilardi on the second line. Niederreiter, Toews, and Namestnikov make up the third group, and Koepke, Barron, and Nyquist serve as the fourth line. Defensively, Morrissey partners Demelo, Samberg pairs with Salomonsson, and Stanley teams with Schenn. The goaltending duo consists of Hellebuyck and Comrie.
Key Players to Monitor in the Game
For the Canadiens, Juraj Slafkovsky will be an essential player, having scored in their 3-2 shootout victory over Winnipeg in December. On the Jets’ side, Kyle Connor remains a crucial contributor after tallying a goal and an assist in the same December matchup.
Injury Status Ahead of the Match
Montreal will be missing forwards Patrik Laine and Alex Newhook, both on injured reserve, as well as defenseman David Reinbacher, who is sidelined. Alexandre Texier is listed as day-to-day. The Jets’ lineup is affected by the absence of defensemen Haydn Fleury, Colin Miller, and Neal Pionk, all currently on injured reserve.
Upcoming Fixtures for the Winnipeg Jets
Looking beyond this game, Winnipeg plans to face the New York Islanders at home on February 7, followed by road games against the St. Louis Blues on February 22, and the Nashville Predators on February 27. Later matches include a home game versus the Dallas Stars on March 14 and a contest against the New Jersey Devils on January 11, 2026.
