Canadians Hockey NHL – The Montreal Canadiens secured a dramatic 5-4 overtime victory against the Vancouver Canucks, marking their third win in four games after a challenging 0-14-0 stretch. This win signifies only their second victory in seven games since returning from their holiday break, but more importantly, it’s their fifth win in six games overall, propelling them into playoff contention.
- Canadiens defeated the Canucks 5-4 in overtime.
- This win is their third in four games and fifth in six overall.
- The victory strengthens their playoff hopes.
Game Highlights and Key Moments
A Rollercoaster of a Match
The game was a back-and-forth affair. Trailing 3-1 midway through the game, the Canadiens mounted a comeback, taking a 4-3 lead in the final period thanks to a goal from Lane Hutson. However, a penalty by Cole Caufield allowed the Canucks to tie the game at 4-4 with 11:09 remaining in regulation. Nick Suzuki ultimately sealed the victory with a power-play goal in overtime, his third point of the night, also assisted by Hutson who got his third point of the night.
- Canadiens overcame a 3-1 deficit.
- Lane Hutson scored to give Montreal a 4-3 lead.
- Cole Caufield’s penalty led to the Canucks tying the game.
- Nick Suzuki scored the game-winning goal in overtime.
Hutson vs. Hughes: A Notable Matchup
Lane Hutson’s performance was a key talking point, especially given comparisons to Quinn Hughes. Hughes, returning after missing four games, recorded two assists (his 325th and 326th) in his 400th NHL game. While Hutson had a minor misstep on Vancouver’s first goal, he generally performed well against Hughes, contributing a goal and two assists, with his goal deflecting off Hughes’ skate.
- Lane Hutson and Quinn Hughes faced off in a notable matchup.
- Hutson scored a goal and added two assists.
Overcoming Fatigue and Finding Energy
Travel Fatigue and Early Setbacks
After a long road trip, fatigue was a factor for the Canadiens, particularly during a stretch in the middle period when JT Miller and Jonathan Lekkerimaki scored back-to-back goals for the Canucks, giving them a 3-1 lead. Alexandre Carrier and Kaiden Guhle were on the ice for both goals against.
- Travel fatigue impacted the Canadiens’ performance in the middle period.
- The Canucks scored two quick goals to take a 3-1 lead.
Responding with Energy and Determination
Despite the setbacks, the Canadiens rallied, with Guhle scoring his first goal in 20 games. The line of Jake Evans also played a crucial role in the comeback. Suzuki and Kirby Dach generated scoring chances, though Canucks goalie Kevin Lankinen made key saves.
- The Canadiens showed resilience and determination in the comeback.
- Kaiden Guhle scored his first goal in 20 games.
Physical Play and the Officials
The game featured a physical edge, with numerous body checks exchanged between the two teams. This physicality, along with some disputed calls by referees Eric Furlatt and Frederick LEcuyer (in their 1,500th game for Furlatt), added to the intensity of the contest.
- The game was physical with many body checks.
- The referees’ calls were a point of discussion.
References:
- (Link to NHL.com)