Canadiens Beat Panthers 3-1, Dvorak Scores 100th Goal

The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Florida Panthers 3-1 in a crucial matchup, keeping their playoff hopes alive as they remain just one point behind the New York Rangers for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. Cole Caufield led the Canadiens with a goal and an assist, while Patrik Laine opened the scoring with a power-play goal. Christian Dvorak scored his 100th career goal, providing an insurance marker in the third period. Florida's Mackie Samoskevich scored a goal, but the Panthers suffered their second loss in three games after a six-game winning streak. Montreal's Sam Montembeault made 21 saves, helping secure the victory on home ice. Despite the loss, Florida maintains a lead in the Atlantic Division, but they are missing key players due to injuries and suspensions.