Marc Dumont
The Montreal Canadiens are set to host the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Bell Centre, with the puck drop scheduled for 7 pm ET.
This is the first preseason game of the year for the Habs, and while it doesn’t count for the standings, the players involved will surely want to hit the ground running prior to the start of the 2025-26 season.
It’s also a good opportunity to get a preview of some of the lines and defensive combinations the Canadiens are expected to use throughout the year, including a pairing with newcomer Noah Dobson and veteran Mike Matheson. While their defensive acumen may be in question, there’s no doubt both players excel at quickly driving the play up the ice and generating quality scoring chances for their teammates.
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As for the forwards, we’re unlikely to see Kirby Dach play tonight, however, he’s still expected to take part in a few preseason games, which means he’s on track to be ready to go by the time the regular-season commences.
It seems that rookie Oliver Kapanen will be given an opportunity to shine, playing as the team’s top centre versus the Penguins. Jake Evans, Owen Beck, and Alex Belzile will anchor their respective lines, with Beck playing between fellow rookies Filip Mesar and Sean Farrell.
On the flip side of the coin, fans will not get an opportunity to watch Sidney Crosby play, as he did not make the trip to Montreal. They will, however, see former Hab Rafael Harvey-Pinard in action with his new team. For any further information regarding Pittsburgh’s lineup, make sure to visit our sister site Pittsburgh Hockey Now.
Montreal Canadiens Projected Lineup
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Pittsburgh Penguins Roster
Forwards
12 – Robby Fabbri
14 – Boko Imama
15 – Joona Koppanen
18 – Tommy Novak
22 – Sam Poulin
26 – Tristan Broz
39 – Anthony Mantha
43 – Danton Heinen
48 – Valtteri Puustinen
49 – Rafael Harvey-Pinard
81 – Ben Kindel
84 – Atley Calvert
85 – Avery Hayes
Defence
5 – Ryan Shea
24 – Matt Dumba
27 – Ryan Graves
38 – Owen Pickering
45 – Harrison Brunicke
50 – Finn Harding
75 – Connor Clifton
Goaltending
1 – Sergei Murashov
30 – Joel Blomqvist
How to Watch The Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins, Monday, September 22, 2025
The Canadiens’ Prospect Showdown will be aired on TSN2 as well as RDS.
Once the game is over, an instant recap complete with highlights will be available on Montreal Hockey Now.
