Alex Newhook scored twice, contributing to Montreal’s secondary offense, as the Canadiens defeated the Buffalo Sabres 5-1 in the second round of the playoffs to tie the series at 1-1. Mike Matheson, Alexandre Carrier, and Nick Suzuki also found the net for Montreal. Jakub Dobes, the rookie goalie, made 27 saves in the game. Montreal continued their pattern of alternating wins and losses, a trend that started in the first-round series against Tampa Bay.
In the previous game, Newhook’s goal in the third period secured Montreal’s advancement to the second round. However, the Canadiens’ key offensive players like Cole Caufield and Juraj Slafkovsky are struggling to produce points. Zach Benson scored the lone goal for Buffalo, but Alex Lyon conceded four goals on 27 shots.
The series will now move to Montreal for Game 3. This will be the Canadiens’ first home game after a stretch on the road since their trip to Tampa Bay before the previous weekend. The Sabres, on the other hand, have struggled at home in the postseason, losing three out of five games but winning all three games in Boston, including the series-clinching Game 6.
Montreal took an early lead in the game, with Newhook scoring within the first two minutes. Matheson added another goal shortly after. Buffalo’s power play failed to capitalize, going 0-5 in the game after a strong showing in Game 1. Newhook scored his second goal in the second period, shortly after Buffalo’s power play failed to generate a shot.
Carrier’s goal in the third period further solidified Montreal’s lead. Despite some scoring chances for Buffalo, including missed opportunities by Benson and Tuch, the Sabres couldn’t find their footing in the game. The Canadiens’ victory sets the stage for an exciting Game 3 in Montreal as both teams look to take the series lead.