San Jose Sharks goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic (33) makes a save against the Boston Bruins center Marat Khusnutdinov (92) looks for the rebound in the second period at Boston Garden on Thu Mar 12, 2026 (AP News photo)

San Jose Sharks Lincoln Juarez:

#1 San Jose is coming off a strong win over Boston and has been playing better recently, so the key question is whether they can carry that form into a tough road game in Montreal.

#2 The Canadiens are averaging more than 3.5 goals per game and have been strong offensively this season, especially at home.

#3 Players like Macklin Celebrini for San Jose and Nick Suzuki or Cole Caufield for Montreal could have a major impact on the outcome.

#4 The previous meeting earlier in March ended 7–5 in favor of San Jose, suggesting both teams can generate offense against each other.

#5 San Jose is fighting for a Western Conference wild-card spot, while Montreal sits high in the Atlantic Division and is trying to strengthen its playoff position.

Lincoln Juarez does the San Jose Sharks podcasts each Friday at http://www.sportsradioservice.com