Rangers vs Canadiens live stream free [NBC TV start time, schedule]: Watch NHL Stanley Cup 2014 Playoffs online (Preview)

Madison Square Garden, home of the New York Rangers, is shown in this 2014 file photo.Wikimedia Commons/Richiekim

The Montreal Canadiens have a long way to get back into this series now. Losing two home ice games against the New York Rangers means they now have to go on the road to Madison Square Garden to try and claw their way back into this Eastern Conference Final.

Today's game is a massive one for the Canadiens and they cannot afford to lose, its that simple. The game will start at 8 p.m. EST and can be watched on NBC or online on NBC Sports Live Extra via the link provided below.

The Rangers have stormed out to a 2-0 lead in this series, and have shocked many with how well they've played.

The Canadiens have a horrid time in Game 1, and were completely destroyed by the efficient and ruthless Rangers offense.

In Game 2 the Canadiens did play a lot better, however, the Rangers maintained their excellent form and claimed a second road win to put the series firmly in their favor.

If the Rangers can win tonight they will take a 3-0 lead and be just one win away from the Stanley Cup Final.

One more loss for the Canadiens tonight would put them on the brink and it would take an amazing comeback to see them pull off four straight wins against the in-form New York Rangers. So far there have been no signs of the Canadiens being able launch that kind of comeback, and they will see today's game as basically a must-win already.

The Canadiens managed to deal with the speed of the Rangers much better in Game 2, but they will need to further improve tonight and try and completely shut down the New York offense.

The Montreal Canadiens against the New York Rangers in Game 3 of this season's NHL 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs Eastern Conference Finals will start at 8 p.m. EST and can be watched by clicking here.