Leafs Look to Spoil Habs' Season Opener in Heated Rivalry Renewal

September hockey in Montreal? That's right, the NHL calendar gods have blessed us with Leafs-Habs to kick off the 2026-27 campaign, and you can bet the Bell Centre will be absolutely electric for this one. Nothing gets the blood pumping quite like these two Original Six heavyweights going at it, even if we're shaking off the summer rust.

Toronto comes in with something to prove after another playoff disappointment, while the Canadiens get to open at home with their faithful ready to make life miserable for Auston Matthews and company. Early-season hockey is always a coin flip—systems aren't locked in, special teams are still finding chemistry, and one hot goalie can steal two points out of nowhere.

The Leafs typically bring more firepower up front, but Montreal thrives on chaos and emotion in this building. Expect a tight-checking affair early before things open up in the third. Home ice matters in this rivalry, and the Habs will be flying on adrenaline alone.

DarkHorse hasn't weighed in with a pick yet, so you're on your own navigating this one. But if you're looking for entertainment value and playoff-level intensity on opening night, this is your game. Just don't be shocked if it comes down to a shootout or overtime bounce.