The fate of the Montreal Canadiens hangs in the balance as they head into the playoffs. With the team's playoff hopes riding on the outcomes of their rivals, the Sabres and the Lightning, the Canadiens' future is in the hands of others.
The Canadiens' fate is intertwined with the Sabres and the Lightning, as the next few games will determine not only the playoff matchups but also the home-ice advantage. If the Canadiens' fate isn't sealed by Tuesday's game against the Flyers in Philadelphia, the Sabres and the Lightning will each play their final games on Wednesday.
A win for the Sabres over the Blackhawks in Chicago on Monday night would eliminate the Canadiens' chances of finishing first in the Atlantic Division. The Canadiens' schedule for the upcoming games is as follows:
Sabres:
- Monday, April 13: vs. Blackhawks in Chicago (8:30 PM)
- Wednesday, April 15: vs. Stars in Dallas (7 PM)
Lightning:
- Monday, April 13: vs. Red Wings in Detroit (7 PM)
- Wednesday, April 15: vs. Rangers in New York (7 PM)
Canadiens:
- Tuesday, April 14: vs. Flyers in Philadelphia (7 PM)
The Canadiens' playoff journey is now in the hands of their rivals, and the team must hope for favorable outcomes to secure their place in the postseason.