The Montreal Canadiens will kick off their 2026-27 preseason with an unusual twist—two separate teams taking on the Toronto Maple Leafs in back-to-back split-squad games on the same day. The unusual format sees the Canadiens divided into two groups, each facing the Maple Leafs in what promises to be a high-stakes preseason test. Split-squad games are a common way for NHL teams to evaluate players and manage fatigue, but playing them simultaneously adds an extra layer of intrigue. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the experiment unfolds.

MONTREAL/TORONTO – The Canadiens open their 2026-27 preseason schedule with not one, but two simultaneous split-squad games against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday. Two groups from Habs training ...