Canadiens Secure 6th Straight Win, Bolster Playoff Position

The Montreal Canadiens secured their playoff position with a 4-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings, marking their sixth consecutive win. Goalkeeper Sam Montembeault made 35 saves, helping the Canadiens withstand a challenging first period where they were outshot 23-4. After falling behind to a goal from Dylan Larkin, Montreal rallied with Cole Caufield equalizing and Josh Anderson scoring the game-winner with 9:12 left in the third period. The Canadiens extended their lead with empty-net goals by Brendan Gallagher and Nick Suzuki, solidifying their eight-point lead over Detroit for the Eastern Conference's second wild-card spot. The loss ended Detroit's four-game point streak and significantly hampered their playoff hopes. Additionally, Montreal's win aided the Ottawa Senators in clinching a playoff spot for the first time since 2017.