MONTREAL — In an impressive display of skill and teamwork, Emil Heineman and Cole Caufield each netted goals in the first period, leading the Montreal Canadiens to a convincing 4-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Saturday night.
The Canadiens extended their lead to 3-0 early in the third period when Alex Newhook found the back of the net. However, Tim Stutzle managed to break through, scoring and ending Sam Montembeault’s pursuit of a second consecutive shutout. Montembeault showcased his brilliance, turning aside 24 shots against Ottawa, following a spectacular 48-save performance in the season opener against Toronto.
Caufield capped off the game with his second goal of the night, marking his fourth of the season, as the Canadiens continued to apply pressure throughout the match.
In a third-period power play, Montreal defenseman Mike Matheson was awarded a penalty shot after being tripped by Jake Sanderson while making a break towards the net. Linus Ullmark, who recorded 22 saves, managed to get a piece of Matheson’s shot, which hit the post and missed the net entirely.
Takeaways from the game reveal a clear advantage in special teams for the Canadiens. Heineman secured a power-play goal with just a second left on the man advantage, helping Montreal convert one of four power plays. Conversely, Ottawa struggled, unable to find the net on any of their four opportunities and managing only three shots during those chances.
A significant moment came when Montembeault, who faced just four shots in the first period, was put under intense pressure during the second, as Ottawa outshot Montreal 12-3.
Statistically, the Canadiens have struggled with their power play over the past three seasons, and the start to this season seemed grim after a 0 for 30 showing in the preseason. However, Heineman scored on a power play in the first period, marking a positive start with power-play goals in each of Montreal’s first three regular-season games.
Looking ahead, the Senators are set to host the Los Angeles Kings on Monday, while the Canadiens will welcome the Pittsburgh Penguins to their arena the same evening.