The Montreal Canadiens kicked off their NHL pre-season with an action-packed game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Bell Centre on Monday. The match featured plenty of shots, hits, and impressive saves that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
In a tight game that ended in a shootout, the Canadiens narrowly defeated the Penguins 2-1, with Oliver Kapanen sealing the win with a goal in the fifth round. Tristan Broz of the Penguins scored the first goal on a power play, but Owen Beck of the Canadiens quickly responded, tying the game in the third period.
A highlight of the game was a spirited fight between Jared Davidson of the Canadiens and Sam Poulin of the Penguins in the second period. Montreal’s goaltender Sam Montembeault put on a stellar performance, stopping 20 of 21 shots before being replaced by Jacob Fowler, who shut down all 13 shots he faced in regulation and overtime, and four of five in the shootout.
Pittsburgh’s goalie Joel Blomqvist made impressive saves, stopping all 11 shots in the first 30 minutes before being substituted by Sergei Murashov, who made 19 saves in regulation and overtime, and three in the shootout.
The Canadiens dominated in hits and blocked shots, outhitting the Penguins 32-23 and blocking 22 shots to Pittsburgh’s 18. Despite the competitive game, the Penguins managed to convert on one of their power plays, while the Canadiens struggled to capitalize on their five opportunities.
Next up, the Penguins will face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday, while the Canadiens will host the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday.
Keyphrase: NHL pre-season game
