Montreal surrendered leads in all three Eastern Conference Final games so far, including a 3-2 overtime loss in Game 3 that gave Carolina a 2-1 series advantage.
First Three Games Set Series Tone
Montreal opened the series with a 6-2 road victory in Game 1 on May 18. Carolina responded in Game 2 with a 3-2 overtime win on May 20 after Montreal led 2-1 entering the third period. The Hurricanes then took a 3-2 overtime decision in Game 3 on May 23 in Montreal after the Canadiens again held a lead late.
The three contests produced 23 total goals and featured overtime in two of them. Montreal scored 10 goals while Carolina scored 8, yet the Hurricanes hold the series edge because they converted late opportunities.
Carolina’s power-play units converted 3 of 12 chances across the first three games. Montreal’s penalty kill stopped 10 of 12 opportunities but allowed two goals in the final 10 minutes of regulation or overtime.
Game 4 Carries Series Momentum
Game 4 is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 27, at Montreal’s home arena. A win would tie the series at 2-2 before Game 5 shifts back to Carolina on Friday, May 29, also at 8:00 p.m. ET.
If Montreal wins Game 4, the Canadiens would host a potential Game 6 on Sunday, May 31. A Carolina victory tonight would give the Hurricanes a 3-1 lead and force Montreal to win three straight to advance.
The 8:00 p.m. start time matches the previous three games and aligns with national broadcast windows.
Remaining Schedule Leaves Little Margin
Game 5 returns to Carolina at 8:00 p.m. ET on May 29. Potential Game 6 in Montreal is listed as TBD for Sunday, May 31. Game 7, if necessary, is set for 8:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, June 2, in Carolina.
The compressed schedule between Games 4 and 5 gives both teams only one full day of rest. Montreal has played three consecutive games decided by one goal or less.
Carolina has now won two straight after dropping the opener, extending its playoff winning streak to four games including the second round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.