The Montreal Canadiens will host the Florida Panthers on Thursday, January 8, just a night after beating the Calgary Flames in their first game of 2026 at the Bell Centre.

My Panthers vs. Canadiens predictions and NHL picks suggest that the Canadiens will continue their recent dominance over the Panthers, with their slew of young offensive threats doing some damage.

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Panthers vs Canadiens prediction

Panthers vs Canadiens best bet: Canadiens moneyline (+110)

The Montreal Canadiens have not lost to the Florida Panthers since February 29, 2024, entering tonight carrying a six-game winning streak against the two-time reigning Stanley Cup champions.

They’ve notably been the underdog in all six games, just as they are tonight.

The Habs have beaten Florida three straight times at the Bell Centre and will look to make it four in a row tonight. The Habs sit just one point off the Atlantic Division lead, while Florida finds itself sitting outside of a playoff spot.

Panthers vs Canadiens same-game parlay

A major reason for the Canadiens’ success so far this season has been their multitude of star young players. Think Lane Hutson, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Ivan Demidov.

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Demidov, a Calder Trophy hopeful, has racked up seven assists in his last eight games. He has three helpers in his last four overall, two of which were on Oliver Kapanen‘s goals.

Kapanen, who was just named to Finland’s Olympic roster, has three tallies in his last four contests.

Panthers vs Canadiens SGP

Oliver Kapanen anytime goal

Panthers vs Canadiens odds

Moneyline: Panthers -130 | Canadiens +110

Puck Line: Panthers -1.5 (+185) | Canadiens +1.5 (-225)

Over/Under: Over 6.5 (+110) | Under 6.5 (-130)

Panthers vs Canadiens trend

Montreal has won six consecutive meetings with Florida, all as the underdog. Find more NHL betting trends for Panthers vs. Canadiens.

How to watch Panthers vs Canadiens

Location

Bell Centre, Montreal, QC

Date

Thursday, January 8, 2026

Puck drop

7:00 p.m. ET

TV

SCRIPPS, TSN2

Panthers vs Canadiens latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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