The Montreal Canadiens survived a bruising Game 7 against the Buffalo Sabres, winning 3-2 in overtime to clinch a spot in the Eastern Conference finals.
Overtime Heroics
Alex Newhook delivered the decisive goal, slipping a wrist shot past Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen after a flurry of chances. Earlier, Phillip Danault and Zachary Bolduc had put Montreal on the board, while Rasmus Dahlin and Jordan Greenway had answered for Buffalo.
Goaltender Jakub Dobeš was the backbone of the victory, making a sensational save on Tage Thompson that kept the Sabres at bay. His performance, coupled with a disciplined defensive effort, turned the tide in the extra period.
The Canadiens, the youngest team in the playoffs, rode a 56-26 shot advantage in the middle frame and capitalized on a 33-12 edge during Rasmus Dahlin’s five‑on‑five minutes in the third. Their depth and speed proved decisive against a Sabres side that had dominated possession but could not convert.
With the win, Montreal now turns its attention to the Carolina Hurricanes, a team that finished the regular season with a strong defensive core. The upcoming series promises a clash of youthful vigor and seasoned experience.
Coach Lindy Ruff praised the collective effort, highlighting the contributions of players such as Bowen Byram, Alex Tuch, and Matthew Fairburn, while also noting the emergence of prospects like Alexandre Texier.
The Sabres, despite a 56-26 shot advantage through two periods, will now face offseason decisions as they regroup for the next campaign.