Montreal and Toronto won’t have to wait long for their first rivalry game.
The Canadiens visit the Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena tonight, September 29, to open their 2026–27 regular seasons. The scheduled start is 7:00 PM ET, with Canadian coverage on Sportsnet and TVA Sports.
Beyond the history between these teams, there are two different objectives. Montreal wants to build on a run to the Eastern Conference Final. Toronto has made significant changes and is trying to return to the playoffs.
Where the Game Could Be Decided
For Toronto, defensive structure deserves close attention. Against Montreal’s skill, loose coverage and turnovers in dangerous areas can quickly become scoring chances.
Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield give the Canadiens a familiar offensive partnership. Montreal’s challenge is getting that attack going without leaving room for Toronto to counter.
Auston Matthews and William Nylander remain major threats for the Leafs. Keeping them outside is one thing. Preventing them from finding space between defenders is another.
The key matchup is how each team handles possession under pressure. Clean exits can get the attack moving. Failed clearances can leave defenders stuck on the ice and force penalties.
Special teams could then decide a game that the betting market views as extremely close.
Canadiens vs. Maple Leafs Odds Today
Inside The Rink’s September 29 preview lists Montreal at -112 on the moneyline and Toronto at -108, making the Canadiens a slight favourite in the quoted DraftKings market.
The total is 6.5 goals, with the over priced at +102 and the under at -122.
The small moneyline gap suggests a closely matched game. On the total, the under carries the shorter price, although that reflects the listed market rather than a prediction of how the game will unfold.
These odds were listed on September 29 and are subject to change. Prices may differ between sportsbooks.
What to Watch Tonight
Watch which team establishes its forecheck without sacrificing defensive coverage. Sustained pressure matters, but so does having enough support behind the puck when possession changes.
Opening night can expose timing issues, especially when players are adjusting to new teammates. The team that manages those mistakes better should give itself the stronger chance.
There’s a full season ahead. Tonight, the immediate job is straightforward: win a divisional game and make your rival chase the first two points.