Joel Armia's short-handed goal late in the third period secured a 4-3 victory for the Montreal Canadiens over the San Jose Sharks, ending Montreal's five-game losing streak. With this win, the Canadiens improved their recent record from a rough stretch to a more promising outlook.

Aside from Armia, Alex Newhook contributed with a goal and an assist, while Cole Caufield and Brendan Gallagher added to the score sheet. The Canadiens had struggled prior to this game, but Kirby Dach's two assists and Sam Montembault's 27 saves proved crucial in their comeback.

For the Sharks, Tyler Toffoli managed to score and assist, alongside contributions from Macklin Celebrini and Collin Graf. However, San Jose has continued to face challenges, having lost eight of their last nine games.

Joel Armia's short-handed goal late in the third period propelled the Montreal Canadiens to a thrilling 4-3 victory over the San Jose Sharks, ending their five-game losing streak. The Canadiens were struggling with a record of 0-4-1 prior to this game, and the win brings them back into the mix after previously winning seven out of nine games. Alex Newhook contributed significantly with a goal and an assist, while Cole Caufield and Brendan Gallagher also found the back of the net. Kirby Dach recorded two assists, and goaltender Sam Montembault made 27 saves to secure the win.

The Sharks, on the other hand, have faced tough times recently, suffering their eighth loss in nine games, and have now lost 11 of their last 13 overall. Tyler Toffoli stood out for San Jose, scoring a power-play goal that temporarily tied the game, while Macklin Celebrini and Collin Graf also scored. Alexandar Georgiev made 16 saves in the loss. The game showcased notable back-and-forth action, with Gallagher's power-play goal giving Montreal a brief lead before Toffoli's equalizer. However, Armia's late heroics secured the win.

Dylan Larkin made his 700th NHL game memorable with a power-play goal and an assist as the Detroit Red Wings defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4-2, ending a three-game losing streak. The Wings' offense came alive, with Andrew Copp contributing a shorthanded goal, and Alex DeBrincat and Jonatan Berggren also finding the net. Goaltender Cam Talbot made 27 saves to secure the victory.

For the Canadiens, Kirby Dach scored and assisted on a goal, while Kaiden Guhle also scored. Brendan Gallagher registered an assist in his 800th game, alongside Christian Dvorak and Patrik Laine, who reached 500 games. The game marked a halt to Lane Hutson's impressive nine-game point streak.

Dylan Larkin celebrated his 700th NHL game with a power-play goal and an assist, leading the Detroit Red Wings to a 4-2 victory over the Montreal Canadiens, ending a three-game losing streak. Andrew Copp contributed with a shorthanded goal, while Alex DeBrincat and Jonatan Berggren also found the net. Cam Talbot made 27 saves to secure the win. Kirby Dach scored for the Canadiens, supported by an assist from Brendan Gallagher in his 800th game, and Kaiden Guhle also scored. Detroit’s offense surged after a dismal scoring stretch, dominating the first period with a 17-4 shot advantage.

Key moments included Larkin scoring shortly after Dach's goal, solidifying Detroit's lead. The team's power play, now ranked third in the league, has been revitalized under new head coach Todd McLellan, netting 19 goals in 14 games. Meanwhile, the Canadiens saw Lane Hutson’s impressive assist streak come to an end. The Red Wings will face the Tampa Bay Lightning next, while the Canadiens begin a homestand against New Jersey.

The Montreal Canadiens are currently positioned for a wild-card playoff spot, largely attributed to the impactful addition of Patrik Laine, who has made significant contributions since joining the team. Laine boasts an impressive tally of 12 goals and 5 assists in just 19 games, with ten goals scored on the power play. His presence has not only boosted his individual performance but has also enhanced the overall potency of the Canadiens' second line, particularly benefiting players like Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook. This revamped second line has become a crucial asset for the team, evident in their recent victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The effectiveness of Laine, Newhook, and Dach has been highlighted by TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button, who emphasizes their synergy and ability to read the game well. Their combined skills have alleviated some scoring pressure off the top line, allowing the Canadiens to become a more formidable offensive unit. With Laine's contributions, the Canadiens are demonstrating depth in their scoring capabilities, which presents a challenge for their opponents as they head toward the Four Nations Faceoff and the regular season's critical stretch.