Samuel Montembeault delivered a crucial performance in a 3-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, alleviating doubts about his role as the Canadiens’ top goalie. Despite facing 18 high-danger shots, he made key saves, especially in the final period. Jake Evans scored the game-winner while also excelling in the faceoff circle and stifling the Lightning’s power play. Juraj Slafkovsky’s goal boosted his confidence, and Lane Hutson displayed impressive physicality against larger opponents, extending his point streak to nine games.
Montembeault Shines in Critical Victory
Following a challenging outing by Samuel Montembeault last Saturday and Jakub Dobes’ impressive fifth consecutive win on Sunday, doubts started to emerge about Montembeault’s status as the number one goalie for the Canadiens.
This situation highlights how quickly emotions can flare regarding goaltenders in Montreal. Those eager to shift gears will need to hold off for a little while longer. On Tuesday night, Montembeault was instrumental in securing a 3-2 win against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
This regulation win propelled the Canadiens into playoff contention, positioning them just one point behind the Lightning, who sit in third place in the Atlantic Division.
While the scoreboard displayed a narrow margin in favor of the home team, the scoring chances revealed a different story, heavily favoring Jon Cooper’s squad.
According to data from a specialized analytics site, the Lightning generated 18 high-danger scoring opportunities, while the Canadiens could muster only three.
In the final period, Montembeault showcased his skills, stopping 15 shots before Jake Evans netted the game-winner with just over two minutes to go.
Evans’ Stellar Performance and Slafkovsky’s Confidence Boost
Evans not only contributed the decisive goal but also enhanced his negotiating leverage with the Canadiens. He played a crucial role defensively, effectively neutralizing the Lightning’s potent power play, which they failed to convert on four occasions.
His performance in the faceoff circle was impressive as well, winning 63% of his draws, especially in critical moments of the game.
Let’s Go, Juraj!
Fans have long urged Juraj Slafkovsky to increase his shots on goal, a frequent critique since his NHL debut. His goal on Tuesday should instill a newfound confidence in him.
Slafkovsky exhibited remarkable precision, finding a narrow opening that even Andrei Vasilevskiy took a moment to comprehend. This goal invigorated the Canadiens, who maintained pressure in the offensive zone until Alex Newhook scored to tie the game.
The frustration of coaches is palpable when players commit penalties in the offensive zone, as Conor Geekie’s infraction provided the Canadiens with a golden opportunity.
Hutson’s Fearless Play
On another note, Lane Hutson demonstrated that he is anything but timid. Despite his smaller stature, he held his ground physically against much larger opponents.
Faced with 6’3″ Zemgus Girgensons and 6’4″, 230-pound Nick Paul, Hutson stood tall. While he didn’t knock them down, his refusal to back down was commendable.
This ability to withstand physical play complements his already impressive offensive skill set. He further showcased this talent by assisting on Slafkovsky’s goal, marking his point streak at nine games, tying the record for rookie defensemen set by Shayne Gostisbehere.