Colorado Avalanche vs Montréal Canadiens Head-to-Head

Canadiens built their historical edge pre-2005, winning 81 of 143 decided meetings (57%) (plus 15 ties). In the shootout era they are 12-17 against each other (41% Canadiens). 15 historical ties live in the all-time ledger, all predating the 2005 shootout rule. Postseason history is deep: 31 playoff games between the two franchises. Games average a 2.3-goal margin, with the largest blowout coming via Canadiens' 9-goal win. Across the last 20 decided meetings Avalanche hold a 12-8 edge, suggesting the modern balance leans their way. The 1980s produced the deepest sample with 97 recorded meetings, more than any other decade in the series. Their first recorded meeting fell in 1979, so the rivalry has spanned 47 seasons of NHL history. Most recent result: Canadiens won 7-3 on Jan 29, 2026. Through the 2020s Avalanche have led 6-4 between the teams.