Preview: Canadiens at Ducks ANAHEIM, Calif. (Interstat) — Two teams riding opposite waves of momentum will meet Friday night when the Montreal Canadiens visit the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center. Both clubs enter the March 6 matchup with identical 33-27 records, but their recent paths have diverged. The Canadiens are looking to rebound from a 7-5 road loss to the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday, a game in which their defense faltered despite a five-goal offensive output. Montreal will lean on forward Alex Newhook, who is coming off a two-goal performance in that defeat and has three points in his last two games. Center Jake Evans and defenseman Michael Matheson, who each had multiple points against San Jose, will also be key as the Canadiens begin a two-game California trip. The Ducks, meanwhile, are aiming to shake off a 5-1 home loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday. That defeat snapped a three-game winning streak that included impressive victories over Calgary, Winnipeg and Edmonton. Anaheim’s offense runs through rookie sensation Cutter Gauthier. The winger has been a bright spot, scoring three goals on 14 shots over his last two contests, including a two-goal effort in the win over Calgary on March 1. Historically, this matchup has been tight. The teams are scheduled for a quick rematch in Montreal on March 15. The Canadiens have shown resilience on the road this season, including a 5-1 win at Winnipeg in early February. The Ducks have been strong at home, boasting recent wins over Seattle and Vegas at Honda Center. Friday’s game pits Montreal’s need for defensive structure against Anaheim’s search for consistent secondary scoring behind Gauthier. The result could hinge on which team better corrects its recent flaws, with both jockeying for position in a crowded playoff picture. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST.