Something truly unexpected unfolded behind the scenes as the Montreal Canadiens prepared to kick off their season at the iconic Bell Centre. While fans eagerly anticipated a night of celebration and tribute, an unforeseen twist threatened to overshadow the festivities and cast a shadow over the team’s highly anticipated home opener.

Rumors swirled throughout the day, hinting at a bizarre controversy involving a potential NHL fine—one that seemed almost unbelievable given the circumstances. The tribute to legendary goaltender Ken Dryden, meant to honor a cornerstone of Canadiens history, suddenly found itself at the center of a heated debate that reached all the way to the league’s top offices.

As the clock ticked down to puck drop, insiders and journalists scrambled for answers, and the atmosphere grew tense both inside and outside the arena. Would the Canadiens be penalized for their heartfelt tribute? Could a last-minute solution be found to save the night and preserve the spirit of celebration?

With exclusive information emerging from trusted sources, the drama took a surprising turn—one that no one saw coming. What happened next not only resolved the crisis but set the stage for an unforgettable evening in Montreal. Read on to discover the full story behind this remarkable development.

Photo of Kent Hughes and Gary Bettman

Photo credit: Habsfanatics/NHL

As we mentioned to you earlier today, there was a special situation regarding the Montreal Canadiens’ season opener live from the Bell Centre.

The Canadiens were going to receive a fine from the NHL due to the tribute being paid to Ken Dryden.. which was obviously completely ridiculous!

Well, good news!

A request was submitted (and accepted) by the National Hockey League in order to resolve this situation and grant special permission to the Habs.

Sanction canceled for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens

This information comes from the excellent TVA Sports journalist Nicolas Cloutier.

“Clarification regarding the CH opening ceremonies

It’s been whispered to me that the organization will not be fined since it made a request to the League for a puck drop at 7-7:30 PM tonight.”

– Nicolas Cloutier

So, the puck drop for tonight’s game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Seattle Kraken should take place around 7:20-7:30 p.m.

Samuel Montembeault will be in net for the Tricolore for this home opener and this tribute night to the legendary Ken Dryden, while Joey Daccord will be in goal for the Seattle Kraken.

Montembeault, 28 years old, is a 6-foot-3, 218-pound goaltender who posted a record of 31-24-7 last season, with a goals-against average of 2.80 and a save percentage of .902.

This season, in two games, he has a record of 1-1-0, with a goals-against average of 2.54 and a save percentage of .894.

“Tonight’s pregame ceremony begins at 6:50 p.m.”

– Montreal Canadiens

Enjoy the game!