Canadiens vs Senators prediction: Who has the NHL preseason edge?

Montreal took the latest meeting, beating Ottawa 3–2 in overtime on September 21, with Cole Caufield scoring twice. Now comes a rematch with a twist.

The Canadiens and Senators have simultaneous split-squad games scheduled in Ottawa and Montreal. That makes the team sheets particularly interesting: which players head to Ottawa could matter more than the result of their previous meeting.

When is Canadiens vs Senators?

The Montreal Canadiens visit the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, September 26, at 7 p.m. ET in Ottawa, according to the NHL’s preseason schedule.

This is a preseason game. The separate Senators at Canadiens matchup takes place in Montreal at the same time, so the two fixtures need to be treated individually.

What is the prediction for Canadiens vs Senators?

There’s no strong case for a firm winner pick before the Ottawa rosters are confirmed. The key question is how much established NHL talent each club assigns to this game.

Roster split could shift the balance

A familiar team name doesn’t necessarily mean a familiar lineup. With players divided between two cities, the balance of experienced forwards, defensemen and prospects could look quite different on each side.

If Montreal sends a stronger attacking group, that would strengthen its case. If Ottawa keeps more of its established players at home, the Senators could have the more settled combinations. These are scenarios to assess once the rosters arrive, rather than assumptions about who will play.

Goaltending deserves a close look

The starting goalie is only part of the picture. Any announced plan to share minutes would also matter, especially if one team changes goalies midway through a close game.

For this matchup, the useful comparison will be the goalies actually assigned to Ottawa and the defensive support around them. Season-long expectations alone won’t settle that question.

Special teams could expose unfamiliar combinations

Power-play opportunities could become especially valuable if either lineup struggles with defensive coverage. An established passing combination facing a less familiar penalty-killing unit would be one potential advantage.

The same applies at even strength: clean exits and disciplined puck management could help a less experienced lineup avoid spending long stretches defending.

What is Canadiens vs Senators prediction on OG.com?

The latest OG.com prediction markets showed a very tight margin. Traders favored Montreal Canadiens to win only slightly, at 56%. Ottawa Senators’ win was priced at 48%. 

Market data as of 22 September. For the latest implied probability, check OG.com

Latest Canadiens vs Senators news

Montreal announced on September 16 that Kaiden Guhle needed four to five weeks to return following adductor surgery. His absence adds another consideration when dividing defensive responsibilities.

Ottawa is reshaping its offense after trading Brady Tkachuk, with William Eklund among its additions. Which attacking combinations appear in this game will help determine how that transition affects the matchup.

FAQs about Canadiens vs Senators  

Why are Canadiens vs Senators playing twice on September 26?

The teams are using split squads, with separate groups playing in Ottawa and Montreal simultaneously, as listed in the official schedule.

What could change the Canadiens vs Senators prediction?

Confirmed rosters, goalie assignments and any planned rotation could change the balance, particularly if one side fields a more experienced lineup.