The intensity permeating a match-up between Boston and Montreal is derived from a lifetime of rivalry.  No two teams in the history of the NHL have faced off against each other more often than the Bruins and the Habs, as the clubs have squared off over 600 times. 

The Boston-Montreal rivalry is particularly strong in the postseason, as the Canadiens have emerged victorious in 24 of the 32 series.  From 1946 to 1987, the Habs won all 18 playoff series between the two bitter opponents.   

During this sequence, the Canadiens collected six Stanley Cups at the hands of the Bruins, but Boston has never been able to return the favor.

The Bruins enjoyed more success in the early 1990s, winning five series over the Habs in six seasons.  Since then, Montreal has found its way back on top, offing Boston in three of the last four series.

Here are a few key moments in the history of the Montreal-Boston rivalry:

-    On March 13, 1955, during an altercation with Boston’s Hal Laycoe, Maurice Richard strikes the linesman who is restraining him.  The league suspends the “Rocket” for the remainder of the season, includingthe playoffs.  Judging the decision to be unjustly harsh, Montreal fans seethe with anger, reaching their boiling point in a game against the Red Wings two days later and sparking a riot in the streets.  

-    In 1971, during Game 2 of the quarterfinals, the Canadiens erase a 5-1 deficit to defeat Boston 7-5.  The game proves to be a turning point in the series, as Montreal would go on to oust the top-seeded Bruins in seven games.

- Leading 4-3 on May 10, 1979, late in Game 7 of the semifinals, the Bruins are whistled for a too-many-men penalty.  Guy Lafleur records the equalizer on the ensuing power play and a few minutes later, Montreal’s Yvon Lambert notches the game-winning goal in overtime.