10 Thoughts: Habs Overcome Stingy Mammoth in a 6-2 Romp
The Canadiens had a slow start against Utah on Saturday, but after taking the lead in the second period, they controlled the game. They delivered one of their best offensive performances of the season.
The Utah Mammoth, formerly known as the Arizona Coyotes until 15 months ago, came to Montreal just two points behind the Canadiens. Both teams feature young, fast-paced squads, with Utah known for effectively protecting their net.
Montreal returned to the Bell Centre to begin a home stand after two tough losses in shootout and overtime. The key question was whether they could raise their intensity and secure a regulation win against a strong opponent.
After conceding an early goal again, the Canadiens settled into their usual style. Ivan Demidov and Oliver Kapanen teamed up for another goal, while Cole Caufield scored twice. Samuel Montembeault’s strong goaltending and late goals by Nick Suzuki and Kirby Dach helped seal a confident 6-2 victory, much to the crowd’s delight.
Lineup
- Cole Caufield – Nick Suzuki – Juraj Slafkovsky
- Connor Newhook – Oliver Kapanen – Ivan Demidov
- Arvid Bolduc – Kirby Dach – Brendan Gallagher
- Michael Anderson – Jacob Evans – Lucas Veleno
- Alex Matheson – Cal Dobson
- Mitchell Struble – Noah Hutson
- Jordan Xhekaj – Ryan Carrier
Key Points
- For the second consecutive game, the Canadiens conceded an early goal.
- The team then adjusted and played their consistent season style.
- The Canadiens’ offense was led by strong performances from Demidov, Kapanen, and Caufield.
- Montembeault's goaltending was a crucial factor in the victory.
"The Canadiens settled down to play the way they have played much of the early part of the season."
Despite early setbacks, the Canadiens exhibited resilience and offensive depth to overcome a defensively solid Mammoth team.
Author’s Summary: The Canadiens overcame a slow start with strong offensive teamwork and solid goaltending to claim a confident 6-2 home victory over the Utah Mammoth.