Montreal playoff fever rises as Canadiens host Sabres in Game 3
Posted May 10, 2026 10:47 am.
Last Updated May 10, 2026 5:58 pm.
The Montreal Canadiens will look to take the series lead against the Buffalo Sabres on Sunday after splitting the opening two games of the series on the road, as the second-round matchup shifts to Montreal for Game 3 with the series tied 1-1 and fans across the city ready for playoff hockey to return home.
After dropping Game 1, 4-2, Montreal responded with a 5-1 win in Game 2 Friday night in Buffalo to even the series heading into its first home game of the round, with playoff hockey now shifting back to a sold-out Bell Centre atmosphere.
‘It’s electric’: fans flood downtown ahead of home return
Hours before puck drop, fans in Canadiens jerseys filled the area outside the Bell Centre, setting the tone for what many expect to be an intense playoff environment.
“It’s electric. It’s one of the best rinks in the world. No better place to be,” said one fan who travelled from Bathurst, New Brunswick.
A younger fan group was just as confident in the home side.
“The Habs are going to win,” one girl said, while her sister added, “The Habs are a very good team.”
Another fan arriving ahead of puck drop said expectations are high after the team’s Game 2 performance.
“I’m excited. They’re going to win,” she said. “Did you see last game? It’s perfect. We’re going to be there to cheer them up, and hopefully they’re going to win tonight.”
She added that the return to Montreal changes the energy entirely.
“It’s amazing. I’m sure the guys are happy to be here. You feel the energy through all the seats, and I guess it’s giving them power to be able to play that game.”
Suit stands out in playoff crowd
Among the pregame crowd, one fan drew attention in a custom Canadiens-themed suit made by his wife, a look he said has become part of his playoff tradition.
“I’m feeling that the Montreal Canadiens will win 5–2, and Caufield will score two goals tonight,” he said.
He added that the atmosphere inside the Bell Centre is unlike anything he has experienced.
“It’s crazy. It’s never seen before. I’ve been to some soccer games in Europe, but this is at another level.”
Bell Centre preparing for playoff atmosphere
Fans are being encouraged to be in their seats by 6:50 p.m. for the pregame presentation as the Bell Centre hosts its first home game of the series.
Commemorative playoff rally towels will be placed on every seat, while the Canadiens’ official outdoor watch party opens at 5 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.
The team has also expanded its outdoor setup for Round 2, adding a third screen to accommodate growing demand for the free viewing event.
The Fan Jam pregame activation will also run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., featuring live broadcasts, food and beverage stations, merchandise sales, and fan activities.
Fans travel from across North America
Supporters came from far beyond Montreal to witness the playoff atmosphere firsthand.
“We came all the way from New Brunswick to see this game,” said one woman attending with her family. Her daughter added, “The Bell Centre is the best place to be in the playoffs, all season long.”
A fan from the Toronto area said Montreal remains unmatched.
“Best place, you know. Best atmosphere, best team. Cups this year, you know, it’s coming.”
Another travelled from the Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Alberta after hearing stories about the city’s playoff environment.
“I’m here for the atmosphere,” he said. “Back home at work, there’s a guy I work with, and he shared a story about how crazy the fans are. So I come here to experience it firsthand. Plus, it’s the only Canadian team left.”
Even some Buffalo-area supporters made the trip north.
“We live an hour outside of Buffalo and are actually Buffalo season ticket holders, but the Habs have always been my favorite team,” one woman said. “So we decided to drive up here as my Mother’s Day gift after going to the first games down in Buffalo.”
She said the contrast between cities is clear.
“Nothing compares to hockey in the Bell Centre.”
Canadiens looking for consistency
Montreal has yet to record back-to-back wins in the playoffs, something the club will try to change on home ice.
Some fans believe Game 2 showed what the team is capable of when it executes early.
“It was a good game. Last game was fabulous,” one fan said. “I’m thinking that it’s going to be a tight one compared to the last one for sure.”
Another added the importance of home ice in the series.
“The series is only lost when you lose your first home game,” he said. “They’re two tight teams… I see the Habs pulling it off in seven.”
Montreal has relied on strong five-on-five play throughout the postseason, allowing 12 even-strength goals over nine playoff games.
Generating offence at home will also be key after scoring five goals across three home games in the first round.
Newhook among players to watch
Forward Alex Newhook enters Game 3 coming off a two-goal performance in Game 2.
Buffalo continues to get production from Zach Benson and Josh Doan, with Doan carrying six points in his last five games.
Fans expect Montreal to stay aggressive after its response in Game 2.
“I think they’ll play the same way they played Game 2,” one fan said. “Come out on offence every period, get the lead, and then force Buffalo to play their style of play.”
Others are simply ready for another emotional night inside the building.
“Very excited. It’s going to be a great game. Tied series. Go Habs go.”
Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. on Sportsnet.
