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.

In a thrilling overtime victory, Jack Hughes scored the decisive goal, leading the New Jersey Devils to a 4-3 win over the Montreal Canadiens. The game saw Jake Allen make 29 saves in his first regular-season start since his trade from Montreal to New Jersey in March. The Devils, experiencing a resurgence after a tough stretch, secured their second consecutive win.

The offensive output was distributed among Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Tomas Tatar, showcasing a balanced attack. For the Canadiens, Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Alexandre Carrier found the back of the net, but it wasn't enough to prevent their first back-to-back losses since December 2024.

Rookie Jakub Dobes made 40 saves for the Canadiens but faced relentless pressure, culminating in Hughes’ overtime goal. The Devils were without their starting goalie, Jacob Markstrom, sidelined for weeks due to an MCL strain, yet they maintained a strong performance, especially in a venue where they’ve now won nine straight games since April 2018.

Jack Hughes clinched the victory for the New Jersey Devils with an overtime goal, securing a 4-3 win over the Montreal Canadiens. This match marked a significant achievement for Jake Allen, who returned to his former team as a Devil and made 29 crucial saves. The Devils, recovering from a poor stretch of just two wins in their previous eleven games, showcased a stronger offense with goals from Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Tomas Tatar. In contrast, the Canadiens faced consecutive losses for the first time in nearly a year despite goals from Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Alexandre Carrier. The game also highlighted Jakub Dobes, who made 40 saves but suffered his first NHL loss.

The Devils played without their starting goalie, Jacob Markstrom, who is expected to be sidelined for weeks due to an injury. Notably, the Canadiens' top line dominated the ice, contributing to all three goals scored against New Jersey. Despite the defeat, the Canadiens demonstrated resilience, with Carrier scoring his first goal since his trade to Montreal. The Devils, meanwhile, extended their winning streak at the Bell Centre, marking their ninth consecutive victory in that arena.

The NHL has witnessed a surge in talent as several young players have emerged as standout stars this season. Logan Cooley, the Arizona Coyotes' third-overall pick from the 2022 draft, has become a pivotal center, boasting 38 points in 44 games. Meanwhile, Marco Rossi of the Minnesota Wild is making his mark as a top-line center with 39 points, proving his worth alongside MVP candidate Kirill Kaprizov.

Cole Caufield of the Montreal Canadiens is on track for his first 40-goal season, showing improved playmaking skills. In Washington, Aliaksei Protas has broken new ground, achieving career highs with 18 goals, while Dylan Holloway has thrived in St. Louis after leaving the Edmonton Oilers, demonstrating great potential. Lastly, Jake Sanderson is becoming Ottawa Senators' key defenseman, with his offensive game evolving significantly.