MONTREAL — The Philadelphia Flyers are skating into a trap, and they might not even know it. As the NHL’s most penalized team, their reckless edge could be the exact ingredient the Canadiens need to turn tonight’s matchup into a power play clinic.
Since Ivan Demidov’s promotion to Montreal’s top unit on October 23, the Habs have been lethal with the man advantage — scoring five power play goals in just four games and converting at a staggering 55.6%, the best in the league. And yet, they’ve had just nine opportunities, the lowest in the NHL since the controversial officiating in Edmonton.
That could change tonight.
The Flyers, fresh off two demoralizing losses, are unraveling. Head coach Rick Tocchet didn’t hold back after their last outing, calling it “awful” and admitting the team “didn’t accomplish much.” His frustration is palpable, and so is the pressure on a roster that’s struggling to stay disciplined.
Demidov’s arrival has transformed Montreal’s power play into a weapon of precision and creativity. His confidence, vision, and puck movement have elevated the entire unit — and if the Flyers continue their parade to the penalty box, Demidov could feast.
This isn’t just about one game. If the Canadiens capitalize again tonight, the narrative shifts: Montreal won’t just have a hot power play — they’ll have one of the most dangerous special teams in the NHL.