The Montreal Canadiens aim to rebound from a poor showing as they visit New Jersey for their matchup against the Devils.
After a strong run of wins, Montreal’s momentum was broken by a disappointing loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday. Hopes for a five-game streak ended when the Canadiens conceded three goals in the first period, marking what many called their weakest game of the season.
The game was intended to help goaltender Samuel Montembeault regain rhythm and assurance. Instead, he allowed three goals on the opening six shots. However, he quickly regained composure, stopping 35 of the next 36 attempts, including several remarkable saves that kept his team within reach.
Montreal’s skaters, led by Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov with support from Juraj Slafkovský, Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Kirby Dach, sparked a comeback. Their drive helped the team take the lead heading into the third period.
Despite their rally, the Canadiens had no margin for mistakes. A stroke of bad luck allowed Nikita Grebenkin to net his first NHL goal and tie the game. The Flyers eventually captured the extra point in the shootout.
"All good things must come to an end," a sentiment the Canadiens likely felt deeply after Tuesday’s collapse.
The Canadiens hope to recover their edge and consistency after a tough outing against the Flyers as they prepare for another challenging test in New Jersey.