There are moments in every hockey season that stand out as potential turning points. Last night’s game against the Ottawa Senators might have been one of them. While it’s too soon to declare it the defining moment of the season, it’s not far-fetched to think this game could mark the shift from a seemingly endless rebuild to a push for contention.
A Resilient Response
Samuel Montembeault has played some of his best hockey since the break, but last night wasn’t his finest performance. When he allowed Ottawa’s third goal, it could have easily deflated the Canadiens, as has happened in the past. Those “back-breaker” goals can do that. Instead, the team’s veterans responded in a big way.
The Captain Leads the Charge
In critical moments, certain players step up to carry their team. That’s exactly what Canadiens’ captain Nick Suzuki has been doing. After meeting with Kent Hughes during the 4-Nations break—where he successfully convinced the GM to keep the team together—the 25-year-old has taken it upon himself to lead by example. His energy has not only ignited his line but has also spread throughout the entire roster.
“Nick is the conductor, and we all jumped on the train,” said Cole Caufield several days ago.
Since the break, Suzuki has recorded 18 points, tying him for second-most in the entire NHL alongside none other than Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. His line has combined for 19 goals, 22 assists, and 41 points, with a stellar plus-24 rating, making it one of the league’s most productive. Last night, he has reached the 70-points plateau, becoming the first Montreal player to do it in consecutive seasons since Mark Recchi.
Veteran Presence
This season, Brendan Gallagher has looked like his old self, bringing his signature feistiness and proving once again that he is the heart and soul of this team. Despite playing more limited minutes, he remains a difference-maker every time he steps on the ice. Against Ottawa, he finished with a goal, two assists, and a plus-two rating in just over 12 minutes of ice time.
Josh Anderson, who has been playing through injuries all season, delivered a clutch performance, scoring two key goals. He ended the night with a plus-three rating and five hits. His physical presence was on full display in the third period when Thomas Chabot, hearing Anderson’s footsteps, hesitated in the corner, allowing the Canadiens’ power forward to steal the puck and create a scoring chance.
Christian Dvorak, the third member of that line, also made his mark. He opened the scoring on a first-period breakaway and added three assists, finishing with a plus-three rating as well.
Laine’s Silent Statement
Another veteran worth acknowledging is Patrik Laine. Though he didn’t appear on the scoresheet, he might have played one of his most complete games in a Canadiens uniform. He was engaged in all areas of the ice—skating, back-checking, carrying the puck, and driving his line. It was a reminder of why he was drafted second overall in 2016, showcasing his immense talent while leaving fans wanting more consistency.
The Backbone on Defense
On the back end, Mike Matheson continued to be the Canadiens’ most trusted defenseman. Since the break, he has been averaging just under 27 minutes per game, ranking third in the NHL in ice time. Once again, he proved to be an invaluable piece of the puzzle in this crucial game.
The Playoff Push is On
With the victory, Martin St-Louis’ squad now holds the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference, sitting one point ahead of the New York Rangers. The Canadiens also have two games in hand over the Rangers and are now within four points of the Senators for the first Wild Card position.
With 15 games remaining, Kent Hughes’ preseason prediction that the team would be “in the mix” is proving accurate. Players and fans alike are beginning to believe that sneaking into a playoff spot isn’t just a dream—it’s a real possibility.
