Habs Daily: Playoff Momentum, Dach Resurgence, Hutson Hero

Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Here are the Montreal Canadiens news items, stories, and content you may have missed on Friday.

Montreal Canadiens News

It was yet another evenly-matched game, at least on the scoreboard. The Habs emerged with a 2-1 win, and a 2-1 series advantage thanks to Lane Hutson‘s overtime goal. All things considered, the scoreline was a little flattering towards the Tampa Bay Lightning, a team that generated a grand total of one high-danger scoring chance at 5v5. [Canadiens Highlights: Hutson Plays The Hero In Big Win]

Hutson’s game-winning goal was so nice, it’s worth watching twice.

It should also be noted that Hutson somehow managed to call his own goal. This may come off as arrogant to some, but we all know that’s not Hutson’s style. He’s simply confident in his game, and he has the results to back it up.

Captain Nick Suzuki‘s dry humour was at play following the exciting win.

While the first line struggles to create much offence at even-strength, Kirby Dach has done a great job helping the Canadiens win, including a two-point effort on Friday night. It was one of his best games in a Habs uniform since joining the team in 2022.

It’s very easy to dismiss the play of Arber Xhekaj and Jayden Struble on the third pairing, but it would be intellectually dishonest to ignore the fact that they lead all NHL defencemen in expected goal share. Yes, it’s easier to play on the third pair, but it’s never easy to control over 80% of the expected goals. []