Montreal Canadiens vs Ottawa Senators Picks and Prediction for Saturday January 17 2026
Use Code PPWC
The Montreal Canadiens head to the Canadian Tire Centre to take on the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, January 17, 2026, with puck drop set for 7:00 PM EST on ESPN+. Ottawa is listed at -130 on the moneyline with Montreal at +110, and the total is 6.5 (Over -105, Under -115). The puck line has Ottawa -1.5 (+190) with Montreal +1.5 (-230). Make sure to check out our free NHL picks for more game previews and daily betting angles.
Montreal’s Offense Travels, But The Margin Is Thin
Montreal comes in at 26-15-7 overall with a strong 13-5-6 road record, and their last five has been a bit of a roller coaster with losses to the Sabres, Capitals (in OT), and Red Wings, mixed with wins over the Canucks and Panthers. Even when Montreal drops games, their scoring profile keeps them live because they don’t need perfect hockey to put up goals.
From a team-stats standpoint, Montreal is averaging 3.33 goals per game while allowing 3.23, with 26.1 shots per game and 27.2 shots against per game. Their power play has been a real weapon with 32 power play goals and a 23.4% conversion rate, while the penalty kill sits at 79%. They’ve also chipped in four short-handed goals, which adds another way for them to swing momentum.
The biggest positive for Montreal is that they can score in multiple game scripts, and when the power play gets chances, it can change an entire period quickly. The concern is that their goals-against number stays high enough that they’re rarely comfortable late.
Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Subscribe Now
Ottawa’s Pace And Special Teams Keep Them Dangerous
Ottawa enters at 22-19-5 overall with an 11-9-3 home record, and they’ve won two of their last five with wins over the Rangers and Canucks, while also taking losses to the Panthers, Avalanche, and Mammoth. That recent stretch shows some inconsistency, but Ottawa’s ceiling is still high when they’re playing with pace and getting contributions from their special teams.
Ottawa is scoring 3.22 goals per game and allowing 3.33, with 28.5 shots per game and only 25.2 shots against per game. The Senators’ power play has been productive with 35 power play goals and a 22.7% power play percentage, but the penalty kill has been shakier at 72.4%, which matters against a Montreal group that can punish penalties.
Ottawa’s advantage here is that they generate more shot volume while giving up fewer shots, which is usually a strong baseline at home. The risk is that their penalty kill can turn a good game script into a track meet.
Montreal Canadiens vs Ottawa Senators Pick
Montreal Canadiens vs Ottawa Senators Pick
- Pick: Ottawa Senators -130 (Moneyline)
I’m backing Ottawa because the shot profile gives them the more stable base at home, and Montreal’s defense has been loose enough that Ottawa should be able to create sustained pressure. If this game stays at even strength for long stretches, I trust Ottawa’s ability to win territorial play and turn that into enough scoring chances to take the points.
Montreal Canadiens vs Ottawa Senators Total Pick
- Pick: Over 6.5 (-105)
I’m on the over because both teams are sitting above 3.2 goals per game, both allow over 3.2 goals against, and both power plays are strong enough to cash in if this game gets chippy. With Ottawa’s penalty kill sitting in the low-70s and Montreal happy to play high-event hockey, this sets up as a 4-3 type of matchup.
Final Score Prediction: Senators 4, Canadiens 3
How To Bet This Matchup
Before placing a wager on this matchup, it’s essential to approach the betting process strategically by leveraging available incentives. Starting with current sportsbook promos can help you identify platforms offering risk-free bets or deposit matches. Comparing the best betting sites ensures you’re getting fair odds and a secure betting environment. Bettors looking for mainstream sportsbook exposure often turn to BetMGM, where a Betmgm bonus code can provide extra wagering power on spreads, totals, or props. Those seeking lower vig and peer-to-peer style markets may prefer Novig, especially when using a Novig promo code. If you’re betting casually or experimenting with new strategies, free betting apps are an excellent way to stay involved without upfront risk. Social sportsbooks like Thrillzz gain added appeal when paired with a Thrillz promo code, while many bettors also supplement their action with Sweepstakes casino bonuses to enjoy legal, prize-based gaming alongside traditional sports bets.
Never Tried Picks and Parlays? Now Is Your Chance
- Get your first daily picks package for ONLY $1 using coupon code BUCK
- If the pick loses, we credit your account with 3 Flex Picks
- If the pick wins, we still give you 1 Flex Pick on the house
- Win or lose, you walk away ahead. One dollar. No catch.
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days
New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $200 in Bonuses Instantly!
