MONTREAL — In an exciting match on Monday night, Patrik Laine not only scored during regulation but also netted the decisive goal in the shootout as the Montreal Canadiens triumphed over the Anaheim Ducks with a score of 3-2.

Kirby Dach, breaking a 20-game goal drought, contributed a crucial goal for the Canadiens, who bounced back impressively after their previous game against the Washington Capitals, where they surrendered a two-goal lead at home. This victory marks Montreal’s third win in their last four encounters.

Laine’s performance included his third power-play goal since his return from injury on December 3 and marked his first assist of the season. Teammate Nick Suzuki continued his impressive form, extending his point streak to seven games. In goal, Sam Montembeault turned aside 27 shots for the Canadiens.

On the Ducks’ side, Troy Terry found the net twice, bringing his season tally to eight goals, making him the team’s top scorer. Lukas Dostal, Anaheim’s goaltender, recorded 19 saves as the team faced their third consecutive loss during this four-game road trip.

A notable storyline was the debut of Jacob Trouba for the Ducks after his trade from the New York Rangers on Friday. The 30-year-old defenseman logged 22:35 of ice time alongside Cam Fowler and delivered five hits.

Looking at the broader picture, the Ducks have now lost eight one-goal games this season, which accounts for half of their overall losses. For the Canadiens, this victory in overtime marks their third such win this season and their first success in a shootout.

A crucial moment in the game occurred when Dostal mishandled the puck behind his net, which enabled Juraj Slafkovsky to assist Dach for a goal that leveled the game at 2. This goal came just 11 seconds after Terry had put the Ducks in the lead with his second goal of the night.

Statistically, Lane Hutson set a notable record by assisting on Laine’s power-play goal, establishing the longest point streak for a rookie defenseman in Canadiens history. Hutson’s achievement includes seven consecutive games with at least one point, surpassing the previous records held by Chris Chelios and Glen Harmon.

Looking ahead, the Ducks are set to face the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday, while the Canadiens will host the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday.