Table of Contents
Game Overview
In a thrilling matchup on Friday night, the Ottawa Senators showcased their dominance over the Montreal Canadiens, securing a 5-2 victory that significantly impacted the playoff race. Shane Pinto was the star of the night, netting two goals and helping his team maintain momentum as they head into the postseason.
With this win, the Senators not only solidified their playoff position but also dashed the Canadiens’ hopes of clinching a spot in the playoffs.
First Period Highlights
The game started with a bang as Ottawa quickly established a 2-0 lead within the first five minutes.
Pinto opened the scoring, followed by a goal from Dylan Cozens, setting the tone for the rest of the match. The Senators’ aggressive play left the Canadiens scrambling to catch up, and they struggled to find their rhythm early on.
Ottawa’s offensive strategy was evident, with players like Ridly Greig and Michael Amadio contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Second Period Action
As the second period commenced, the Senators wasted no time in extending their lead. Just 65 seconds in, Greig scored, tapping in a beautiful pass from Amadio.
However, Montreal responded swiftly, with Christian Dvorak finding the back of the net shortly after. Despite this brief resurgence, Ottawa maintained control of the game, with Drake Batherson restoring a three-goal cushion by redirecting a shot from Thomas Chabot.
The Senators’ defense, led by Linus Ullmark, held strong against Montreal’s attempts to close the gap.
Key Players and Stats
Throughout the game, several players stood out. Shane Pinto’s two goals were crucial, but it was Jake Sanderson’s 100th career NHL assist that highlighted the team’s depth.
Additionally, Chabot reached a significant milestone with his 300th career point. The Senators’ defense was particularly impressive, limiting the Canadiens to just four shots in the third period, showcasing their ability to maintain pressure and control the game.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Senators are gearing up for their next challenge against the Philadelphia Flyers, while the Canadiens face a must-win situation against the Toronto Maple Leafs. As the regular season winds down, every game counts, and both teams will be looking to capitalize on their remaining opportunities. The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable as fans eagerly anticipate the playoff picture unfolding.
