The Habs swept the five-game road trip with a Game 76 win in Jersey

On Saturday night the Montreal Canadiens were in New Jersey for the final game of a five-game road trip. It was also the first game of a home and home against the Devils. The result was a 4-3 shootout win.

Here’s what caught my eye.

The rookies on that second line continue to impress.

With his power play goal last night, Demidov hit 60 points on the season in his rookie year. It’s a matter of time before he’s chasing his 100 point season. By this time next season, I’m expecting the top two lines to be indiscernible as first and second lines.

Kapanen’s shootout goal didn’t count in his points total, but he continues to find ways to contribute even if he’s not the ideal 2C. It’s true his playmaking leaves something to be desired, but he knows how to find holes in coverage and finish. That’s not nothing.

The makeshift D group is getting it done.

Struble made a nice shot to notch his second goal of the season last night. It was possible because Xhekaj made a nice play at the blue line to keep the puck in play in the offensive zone.

I’d be lying if I said I thought this group of six was good enough to do damage in the playoffs. That view doesn’t really change much with a healthy Carrier. But for now they’re doing enough, and more than expected.b

How they did it wasn’t pretty, but they swept the road trip.

The let down that let Jersey back into the game was almost inevitable after a long and emotional road trip. Yes, Dobes looked a little small in his net when Mercer found that corner in Caufield style. And yes, Bolduc’s back check on the second goal was lazy. And yes again, Evans lost his guy on the tying goal.

But that was a daunting road trip when they started it, and they swept it. Now they’re at eight wins in a row and 100 points on the season. We’ll allow them the sloppy win.

The Bell Centre will be insane on Sunday!