The Montreal Canadiens are aiming to return to the win column and strengthen their defense as they face the New Jersey Devils on Thursday at 7 p.m. Montreal holds a 9-3-1 record, leading the Atlantic Division. Their most recent game ended in a 5-4 shootout loss to the Philadelphia Flyers at home.
The Flyers took a 3-0 lead after the first period, but the Canadiens responded with four goals in the second. Montreal conceded the tying goal midway through the third period. Despite being outshot 42-20, the Canadiens dominated faceoffs 38-20. They converted 2-for-4 on the power play and successfully killed 4 out of 6 penalties.
The power play was crucial in shifting momentum back to Montreal. Kirby Dach stood out as the third star, scoring two goals.
The Devils hold a 9-4 record, topping the Metropolitan Division. They recently lost 4-1 to the Anaheim Ducks on the road. New Jersey trailed 3-0 going into the third period, scored once midway, and conceded an empty-net goal to finish.
The shooting stats were close, with the Devils outshooting the Ducks 33-29. New Jersey was 0-for-1 on the power play and perfect 2-for-2 on penalty kills. Both teams excelled at blocking shots, though some Devils' key offensive players had poor plus/minus ratings.
"The power play was a big reason the Canadiens got back in this game, and it got the offensive momentum going for the rest of the game."
Author’s Summary: The Canadiens look to rebound with a strong power play showing against the Devils, who are striving to overcome recent setbacks and maintain their top divisional spot.