With the preseason heating up and anticipation swirling around Quebec City, the rivalry between the Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators has just taken a dramatic turn that no fan saw coming.

A single, candid comment from Ottawa’s star forward Tim Stutzle has reignited old tensions and sparked a new wave of excitement ahead of tonight’s highly anticipated clash.

When asked a simple question about which team he despises more—Toronto or Montreal—Stutzle’s answer was as bold as it was revealing, instantly sending shockwaves through both fanbases and setting the stage for what could be one of the most electrifying matchups of the preseason.

The atmosphere is already charged, with players and fans alike feeling the intensity that only true rivals can generate. But what exactly did Stutzle say, and how did his words manage to stir emotions from the locker room to the stands?

As other players weigh in and the media buzzes with speculation, the stakes seem higher than ever, and the potential for fireworks both on and off the ice is undeniable.

If you think you know the story of this rivalry, think again—because tonight, something unforgettable is about to unfold, and you won’t want to miss a single moment.

Ottawa Senators' Tim Stutzle (left) Canadiens' Arber Xhekaj (right)

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

Tim Stutzle reignites the rivalry between the Montreal Canadiens and the Ottawa Senators by saying without hesitation that he hates the CH more than the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Tonight’s preseason game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Ottawa Senators, played in Quebec City, already has a special flavor.

Ahead of this matchup, star forward Tim Stutzle gave a response that speaks volumes about the intensity and rivalry between the Senators and the Canadiens.

When asked which team he hates more between Toronto and Montreal, the young German did not hesitate for a second: the answer was Montreal.

A rivalry on the rise between Canadiens and Senators

For those who are a little less familiar with Stutzle, he is clearly one of Ottawa’s top players.

When he dropped his answer with a simple smile, the message was clear: the Canadiens-Senators rivalry is more alive than ever, according to him.

As reported by TVA Sports in a detailed article, Stutzle fully embraces his role as a polarizing figure against the CH.

“This has always been a rivalry, and it’s always tough matchups. Every time we face them, we have to be at our best,” he first said, before Le Journal asked him which team he hates more between Montreal and Toronto.

“Montreal,” replied the 79-point scorer from last season, without the slightest hesitation.

And why, you ask? On that, Stutzle just shrugged and smiled.”

– Via TVA Sports

Jake Sanderson, for his part, added:

“Every time we face them, the crowd is explosive. No matter the arena, you can feel that the fans are waiting for these games.” – Jake Sanderson

For David Perron, all of this could reach a peak in the playoffs in a potential showdown between the two teams.

He explained:

“For a real rivalry to settle in, you need playoff matchups. That’s where it all happens.”

Personally, I believe Stutzle has just added fuel to the fire, and that can only be good for the show. People in Montreal should have a very intense game tonight!