On Sunday night, the second round series between the Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres resumed at the Bell Centre, tied at one game apiece. The result in this one was a blood-pumping 6-2 win for the Habs.
Here’s what caught my eye.
The depth continue to get it done for the Habs.
Game 3 was a beautiful display of secondary scoring for Montreal.
Once again, Newhook showed up at the right place at the right time, because it’s always the right time to head to the net. His play on the penalty kill has also been solid. When the Habs traded for Newhook leading up to the 2023 draft, a lot of us weren’t sure about it. We’re sure now.
Then there’s Bolduc whose style is built for the playoffs, and he got rewarded for a goal he well earned in this one. Are we feeling good about that trade again? That was a sweet feed from Veleno, a last minute free agent signing last off-season.
And Kirby Dach has another goal. One he banged in from the front of the net. He’s really giving management something to think about.
The power play looked sharp in this one.
Finally, Caufield. And another from Slafkovsky. The puck moving was strong and player movement was more dynamic. If they can continue to capitalize on the Sabres penalties, that will be potent.
But the top line is also starting to get more chances at even strength. I’m still waiting for a game where they absolutely dominate and I think it’s close.
Benson is feeling a little too comfortable.
The Montreal Canadiens defended that lead on Sunday like we didn’t think they could earlier in the season. The penalty kill was effective when they needed to be, and they shut down the Buffalo offence nicely.
But I was a little concerned when they allowed that late second period power play goal from Dahlin to cut the lead going into the third period. It was another goal Dobes didn’t see because of net front traffic, with Benson being the main culprit.
If he wants to hang out there, he needs do be risking a rib… every single time. So far he’s had no reason to think twice.
You know your goalie is hot when the jerks try to injure him.
Malenstyn was channeling Hulk Hogan coming off the top rope when he flew into Dobes.
The thing is this. If you’re out to injure him, you’d better succeed. Because Dobes is a battler and revving up his battle instincts might not serve you well. Bieksa might have been a little whiny about the subsequent power play celebration from Dobes, but I loved it.
The swagger is starting to show. Go Habs Go!
Hab At Her 