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The NHL schedule remains relentless this week, and one of the more intriguing matchups takes place at Centre Bell, where the Montreal Canadiens are set to host the Minnesota Wild. With contrasting approaches on display, this contest promises to be a compelling test for both sides as the playoff race begins to tighten.
- What? NHL: Montreal Canadiens vs. Minnesota Wild
- Where? Centre Bell, Montreal
- When? Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 7:00pm ET
Montreal currently occupies third place in the Atlantic Division and remains firmly in the hunt for top spot. The Canadiens have shown solid form of late, picking up six wins from their last ten games to keep the pressure on the teams above them in the standings.
Minnesota also enters the matchup with postseason ambitions of its own. The Wild sit third in the Central Division. However, their recent form has been less consistent after winning four of their previous ten outings. Still, they remain well positioned in the playoff picture and will view this road test as an opportunity to regain momentum.
Below are the NHL betting lines from three of the best NHL Hockey betting sites.
| NHL |  |  |  |
| Minnesota Wild | +123 | +120 | +120 |
| Montreal Canadiens | -140 | -140 | -140 |
| Minnesota Wild +1.5 | -190 | -215 | -215 |
| Montreal Canadiens -1.5 | +165 | +178 | +178 |
| Over 6.5 | +104 | -103 | -103 |
| Under 6.5 | -120 | -117 | -117 |
Montreal Canadiens
Montreal enters this matchup in solid recent form, posting a 6-3-1 record across their last ten games. The Canadiens are shaping up to be one of the more impressive stories of the season. They will carry plenty of confidence into this home contest against Minnesota on Tuesday.
Offensively, the Habs have been productive in recent outings, finding the back of the net 17 times over their last four games. That attacking output has played a key role in their ability to pick up results, even when games have become high-scoring affairs.
Their most recent victory came on the road over the weekend. Montreal edged past the Ottawa Senators 6-5 in an overtime thriller. While that win showcased their offensive firepower, defensive concerns remain, with the Canadiens conceding ten goals across their last two games—an area the Wild may look to exploit.
Minnesota Wild
The Minnesota Wild have put together a steady opening to the campaign. They currently occupy third place in the Central Division standings. Their overall record of 27-13-9 reflects a team that has been competitive on most nights, even if consistency has dipped at times.
Recent form has been mixed, with Minnesota recording four wins across their last ten games. While that stretch hasn’t been enough to generate significant momentum, the Wild remain firmly in the playoff picture and capable of producing strong performances when needed.
Their most recent outing provided a timely confidence boost. They edged past the Buffalo Sabres in a 5-4 overtime victory. Despite coming away with the win, defensive lapses were evident, particularly during the second period where three goals were conceded—an area that could be tested again in this road matchup.
Montreal Canadiens vs. Minnesota Wild Betting Pick
The Minnesota Wild offer value in this matchup despite Montreal’s strong home form. The Canadiens’ recent defensive issues are difficult to ignore, having conceded ten goals across their last two games, and that vulnerability could be exposed by a Wild side capable of capitalizing on scoring chances. Minnesota also comes into this contest off a confidence-boosting overtime win, which should help settle any doubts created by their inconsistent run. With a stronger overall record on the season and a balanced lineup that can score while applying pressure in key moments, the Wild appear well positioned to take advantage of Montreal’s defensive lapses and come away with the victory.
Below are the best offshore sportsbooks where you can pace your Montreal Canadiens vs. Minnesota Wild bets.
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