Canadiens’ Mike Matheson earns ‘respect’ by protcting Sabres’ Zach Benson in a brawl

TL;DR

Montreal Canadiens' Mike Matheson received praise for protecting Buffalo Sabres' Zach Benson during a brawl in Game 2 of their playoff series. Matheson shielded Benson from potential injury when a skate came close to his head.

Key points

Montreal Canadiens tied their playoff series against Buffalo Sabres
Mike Matheson protected Zach Benson during a dangerous scramble
Matheson shielded Benson from a skate near his head
Fans praised Matheson's actions on social media
The game ended with a 5-1 victory for the Canadiens

Montreal CanadiensBuffalo SabresMike MathesonZach Benson

The Montreal Canadiens tied their second-round NHL playoff series against the Buffalo Sabres with a commanding 5-1 win in Game 2 on Friday night. However, one of the game’s most discussed moments had little to do with the scoreboard.

Late in the second period, Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson drew widespread praise after protecting Buffalo forward Zach Benson during a dangerous scramble. Benson fell near the Montreal net during a heated scrum, and Matheson quickly noticed Tyson Kozak’s skate clipping near Benson’s helmet amid heavy traffic.

Instead of engaging physically, Matheson covered Benson with his body and shielded his head from incoming skates until the play settled down.

MORE: Canadiens’ Alex Newhook critiqued after scoring twice in Game 2 win

The sequence immediately spread across social media, where fans applauded the veteran defenseman’s awareness and composure in a high-pressure playoff environment.

“Love this. Major respect bump for Matheson in my books,” one fan wrote on X.

A fan said, “Yup, noticed that right away. Thought Bieksa was going to say something at intermission. Matheson showed respect for the game, something MacAvoy, Tkachuk, and the like are lacking.”

Another fan added, “Sabres fan here. That was all class, and I was impressed. We’ve got a series on our hands, can’t wait for Sunday!”

“This is why Mike Matheson is indispensable and why his contract will age well even as he becomes a third pair D,” .

Q&A

What did Mike Matheson do to protect Zach Benson during the game?

Mike Matheson shielded Zach Benson with his body to protect him from a skate that came close to his head during a scramble.

How did fans react to Mike Matheson's actions in the game?

Fans applauded Matheson's awareness and composure on social media, praising his decision to protect Benson in a high-pressure situation.

What was the outcome of the Canadiens vs. Sabres Game 2?

The Montreal Canadiens tied their second-round playoff series against the Buffalo Sabres with a commanding 5-1 victory in Game 2.

Who were the key players involved in the incident during the Canadiens vs. Sabres game?

The key players involved were Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson and Sabres forward Zach Benson, along with Tyson Kozak, whose skate was near Benson's head.