The Montreal Canadiens had a strong 1990-91 season, finishing second in the Adams Division with 89 points and a 39-30-11 record. Under head coach Pat Burns, the team showcased a formidable defense anchored by goaltender Patrick Roy, who won the William M. Jennings Trophy. Offensively, the Canadiens were led by Russ Courtnall and Stephane Richer, while the season also featured the emergence of young talent like Gilbert Dionne. Their competitive spirit was on display in the postseason as they defeated the Buffalo Sabres in a hard-fought seven-game opening series.