In a hard-fought match, the Montreal Canadiens fell to the Washington Capitals 6-3, with Alex Ovechkin once more on the forefront of the motion. Ovechkin scored his 858th profession purpose and added two assists, pushing the Capitals’ robust begin to 7-2-0 and holding him firmly on tempo to problem Wayne Gretzky’s all-time purpose report. Regardless of a greater workforce effort from the Canadiens after current lineup changes, the Capitals’ offense proved an excessive amount of.
Three Takeaways from the Canadiens’ Loss to the Capitals
Takeaway 1. Ovechkin’s Pursuit Overshadows Habs’ Protection
Ovechkin’s pursuit of historical past was entrance and middle on this sport, together with his purpose towards Cayden Primeau making the Montreal netminder the 176th totally different goalie he’s scored on. Now simply 37 targets away from surpassing Gretzky’s report, Ovechkin stays problematic. He compelled Montreal to scramble defensively all evening.
Whereas the Canadiens’ younger protection core, together with returning Kaiden Guhle, labored onerous to comprise the Capitals’ captain, Ovechkin’s skill to interrupt by and dictate the offense stays outstanding. His presence on the ice drew consideration away from different Capitals, leaving open lanes that led to fast targets from Washington’s depth gamers.
Takeaway 2. Canadiens’ Improved Effort, However Defensive Gaps Stay
After a tough 8-2 loss to Seattle, Montreal confirmed indicators of enchancment, with a refreshed lineup and notable effort from key forwards like Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki. Nonetheless, defensive lapses—particularly on the penalty kill—continued to plague the Canadiens.
Whereas Montreal’s defensive lineup had extra stability with Guhle and Justin Barron again from accidents, the workforce nonetheless had bother containing Washington’s offensive depth and Ovechkin’s skill to create scoring probabilities for his teammates.
Takeaway 3. Caufield and Suzuki Shine in Loss
Although Ovechkin stole the highlight, Montreal’s Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki remained offensive vivid spots. Every scored targets that stored the Canadiens aggressive. Caufield has scored ten targets, which ties him with New Jersey’s Nico Hischier for the highest spot. Suzuki and Brendan Gallagher fought to maintain the sport shut till the Capitals pulled away within the third interval.
Regardless of the loss, Montreal’s youthful stars proceed constructing chemistry and producing offense, even when defensive help stays difficult.
Charlie Lindgren’s key save towards Caufield’s scoring probability throughout a prolonged penalty kill within the third interval stored Washington comfortably forward and deflated Montreal’s final push for a comeback.
What’s Subsequent for the Canadiens?
The Canadiens now head to Pittsburgh. The Penguins have had an up-and-down season and are coming off a win. Montreal is making an attempt to stability enjoying strong protection and offensively supporting its promising younger forwards. They are going to be seeking to rebound from a tricky loss.
In the meantime, Ovechkin’s record-chasing and goal-scoring kind make sure that each sport Washington performs may have a contact of historical past.
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