Jeff Petry was penalized late in the third period and the Columbus Blue Jackets took the opportunity to score with six seconds left on the clock. Result: the Montreal Canadiens extended their losing streak to nine on Saturday afternoon, losing by the score of 2 to 1.
Finnish striker Patrik Laine, with his power play goal, is the one who prolonged the Montreal club’s ordeal.
If interim head coach Martin St-Louis lost his first two games at the helm of the team, it should be noted that the team’s last victory dates back to January 18 against the Stars in Dallas. The next day, general manager Kent Hughes was introduced to the Montreal media. This means that its success rate is not very good either.
Hughes completed a first trade on Saturday, before the game, by acquiring goaltender Andrew Hammond. However, Quebecer Samuel Montembeault was able to keep the Canadian (8-32-7) in the game against the Blue Jackets.
Montembeault notably had to make 17 saves during the first period, being only thwarted by striker Oliver Bjorkstrand. The Quebec goaltender saved a total of 40 pucks during the game.
Another goal for Caufield!
Cole Caufield had given hope to the Habs by hitting the target in the first minutes of the third period while Ryan Poehling collected an assist.
“The victories will have to come, had conceded St-Louis, during an interview with TVA Sports, before the match. I am ready for the challenge. I know I will be judged by how I execute my plan. It’s not something that scares me.”