TORONTO — While it ended in a 1-0 overtime defeat, a game the Montreal Canadiens needed to win in regulation to secure their first playoff appearance in four years, it would be inaccurate to label it as anything but a step forward.
This loss, while still painful for the Canadiens, perhaps didn`t sting quite as much as the previous 5-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators, which was their initial opportunity to clinch a playoff spot.
However, the consolation came in the form of a valuable point gained in the standings. This point secured against Toronto had significant implications: it officially eliminated the Detroit Red Wings from playoff contention, following the earlier eliminations of the New York Rangers and New York Islanders. Now, if the Columbus Blue Jackets fail to win against the Washington Capitals on Sunday night, this single point will be enough to clinch a playoff berth for Montreal.
Beyond the result, the manner in which the Canadiens earned this point is also significant. Despite the disappointing outcome, their performance against the Maple Leafs was commendable.
They demonstrated a strong game, rediscovering the disciplined approach that initially propelled them into a wild-card position. This resurgence is particularly noteworthy given the circumstances.
Playing the second game of a back-to-back against a well-rested, Atlantic Division-leading Maple Leafs team, fresh off an energetic victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, presented a considerable challenge. Coming less than 24 hours after a lackluster performance against Ottawa, another slow start in Toronto seemed likely. It would have been understandable if the Canadiens had pressed too hard and faltered, especially given their eagerness to finalize their playoff qualification.
But that didn`t happen.
Instead, the Canadiens showcased a composed, disciplined, and strategic game.
“I believe we played up to our standards, and when we do that, we give ourselves a fighting chance,” Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis commented. “While we couldn`t capitalize on our scoring opportunities, our team played with heart and determination, and our intentions were right tonight.”
This was evident not just in their successful penalty kill during a critical five-on-three situation in the third period, after Toronto`s dangerous power play earlier in the second; it was also reflected in the limited scoring chances conceded and the numerous opportunities they created at even strength.
Despite the shot clock showing a 35-15 advantage for the Leafs by the end of the game, the total shot attempts were evenly matched at 57-57.
Mitch Marner`s goal was the game`s only score, occurring in three-on-three overtime. However, during five-on-five play, the Canadiens generated 20 scoring chances compared to Toronto’s 15, and also held a slight edge in high-danger scoring chances with 10 to Toronto’s nine.
