The Penguins were one of the biggest favorites on the board both for Saturday’s affair and for the qualifying series prices. Are they in trouble or was the first game just an aberration? Let’s take a closer look at Game 2.

Canadiens vs. Penguins Betting Analysis

The Canadiens cashed as a +150 dog in Game 1 and are now 32-40 on the year. They’ve still cost bettors -15.9 units, so they’ve been one of the least profitable teams this season. They are now 8-10 in their last 18 against teams with a winning record.

The Pens are now 22-13 against teams with a losing record this year. However, they are 19-13 when revenging a loss against an opponent. They are just 2-2 against the Canadiens this season.

Montreal Canadiens

The Canadiens surprised everyone in Game 1 as they not only won the game but were mostly in control of it the entire way through. They scored midway through the first period and then went ahead 2-0 midway through the second. They had a little sleepy spell right after when the Pens scored two goals within about three minutes, but outside of that, the Habs played really well.

The key to the Habs win was a couple of things: they were very physical with the Penguins, out-hitting them 53-30, and they played really well defensively. Carey Price led the way, stopping 39 of 41 shots, and the Habs defense put their livelihood on the line too, blocking 27 shots.

While some people thought they might roll over in this series, that’s proven to be far from the truth. They look like they’re ready to play while the Pens still look sleepy.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Pens should be able to get back on track if the same type of game plays out in Game 2. The reality is that they only took two penalties compared to the Habs eight. The Pens capitalized with one power play goal and if the Habs keep going to the box, the Pens will keep making them pay.

Don’t expect Price to play this well in the series – including the Habs defense. As mentioned, the Habs blocked 27 shots but they’re at 12.88 per game this season, so that number should come down. Price’s save percentage was at .951 and he’s at .909 on the season.

There’s no question the Pens have to play better in Game 2 but the stats do show that Game 1 was a bit of an aberration. However, they better take the Habs a little more seriously or this might be a faster series than anyone expected – and not the result anyone expected.

Who Will Win Canadiens vs. Penguins?

CANADIENS

Away

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PENGUINS

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