MONTREAL — In a strong performance, Jake Allen recorded 34 saves and secured a shutout against his former team, leading the New Jersey Devils to a 4-0 victory over the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday.
Allen, who was traded from Montreal to New Jersey at the previous season’s deadline, showcased his skills by stopping a penalty shot from Owen Beck with just 15 seconds remaining, marking his fourth shutout in 20 games this season.
Jesper Bratt and Jack Hughes contributed with a goal and an assist apiece, while Paul Cotter and Luke Hughes also found the back of the net for the Devils.
On the Canadiens’ side, Sam Montembeault managed to block 18 shots as the team suffered its seventh defeat in eight games.
In terms of notable takeaways, the Devils celebrated Allen’s second victory over Montreal in two weeks, coming after a previous 4-3 overtime win where he made 29 saves.
Despite a slow start, the Canadiens attempted to regroup but failed to breach Allen’s defenses. He made a critical save against Cole Caufield as the first period drew to a close and thwarted Josh Anderson on a breakaway during the second period.
One significant moment during the game involved in-house announcer Michel Lacroix urging fans to honor the national anthems in light of recent events. Throughout Canada, audiences have been known to boo the American national anthem, reflective of tension arising from a potential trade dispute between Canada and the United States, ignited by threats of tariffs from the U.S. President.
At the Bell Centre, the crowd reacted with mostly silence and a few boos while the “Star Spangled Banner” played, but joined in wholeheartedly for “O Canada.”
In an impressive individual statistic, Jesper Bratt extended his point streak to eight games, racking up two goals and ten assists during this span. Against Montreal this season, he has achieved four goals and three assists in just three matches.
Looking ahead, New Jersey is set to take a two-week break for the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament and will return to action on February 22 to face the Dallas Stars. Meanwhile, the Canadiens are scheduled to host the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday.
