In a match-up between two teams vying to improve their rocky seasons, the St. Louis Blues are set to take on the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at 1:05 pm EST.

With a recent surge in form, the Blues, boasting a 27-21-2 record, have climbed up to fourth place in the Central Division with six wins in their last 10 games. On the other hand, the Canadiens have struggled, currently sitting near the bottom of the Atlantic Division with a 21-22-8 record and only four victories in their last 10 games.

For the Blues, their offense has been a cause for concern, managing to score an average of just 2.84 goals per game. However, the top two lines, led by Robert Thomas, Pavel Buchnevich, and Jordan Kyrou, have combined for 48 goals and 80 assists, providing hope for offensive improvement. Nonetheless, with only seven skaters having scored nine goals or more, the team's offense relies heavily on their star players, making them vulnerable to strong defensive opposition.

Defensively, the Blues have struggled as well, allowing an average of 3.10 goals per game. While Colton Parayko and Nick Leddy have contributed 6.0 defensive point shares, the rest of the unit has faltered, leaving the net exposed to their opponents' attacks. Goaltender Jordan Binnington has been the bright spot in the team's defense, with a 2.92 goals-against average on 1052 shots and 4.3 goals saved above average.

The Canadiens, meanwhile, have encountered similar challenges on both ends of the ice. Their offense has managed to score an average of just 2.74 goals per game, heavily relying on Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield's contributions of 32 goals and 53 assists. However, only three skaters have reached double-digit goals this season, leaving the team vulnerable to opponents who can easily neutralize their limited offensive threats.

Defensively, the Canadiens have struggled, allowing an average of 3.46 goals per game. While Johnathan Kovacevic and Kaiden Guhle have accumulated 3.4 defensive point shares, the rest of the unit has proven inadequate, allowing opponents to exploit gaps and take numerous shots on goal. Goaltender Jake Allen has also faced difficulties, with a .901 save percentage and a 3.43 goals-against average on 564 shots.

With the Blues showing signs of improvement and the Canadiens grappling with inconsistencies, the upcoming game promises to be an intriguing battle. The Blues will aim to dominate from the outset, capitalizing on their strong forward unit to create scoring opportunities and limit the Canadiens' average offense. Defensively, the Blues will rely on the likes of Nick Leddy and Colton Parayko to disrupt Montreal's attacks and provide ample support for goaltender Jordan Binnington.

As they take to the road, the Blues are determined to continue their winning streak and secure a victory against a struggling Canadiens team. With their recent form and a strong performance expected, the Blues look poised to claim the win.

The game will be an intriguing clash between these two teams striving to improve their positions in the playoff picture and fans can expect a highly competitive encounter.