Kaiden Guhle's two-goal performance propelled the Montreal Canadiens to a critical 4-2 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes, clinching the final Eastern Conference playoff spot. The Canadiens, entering the postseason for the first time since their 2021 Stanley Cup run, faced immense pressure after struggling to secure their playoff berth over three previous attempts. Despite setbacks against the Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Chicago Blackhawks, Guhle's timely scoring, alongside contributions from Nick Suzuki, solidified their place. The Canadiens will face the top-seeded Washington Capitals in the playoffs, marking a significant turnaround for the franchise that began a rebuild following a dismal start two seasons ago.

Despite a tough 1-0 overtime loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis found positives in the game, highlighting his team's effort as they strive for a playoff spot. The Canadiens now sit at 88 points, five points clear of the Columbus Blue Jackets, who still have three games left. With only two games remaining for Montreal, a single Columbus loss would secure their playoff berth.

The Canadiens, who were outshot 35-15, managed to send 57 shots towards the Maple Leafs' goalie, Anthony Stolarz. Captain Nick Suzuki expressed pride in the team's unexpected playoff pursuit following a rebuild season. NHL rookie Kaiden Guhle noted the importance of experience gained from playing meaningful games, indicating significant development for younger players.

The Montreal Canadiens are surging towards a playoff berth with a six-game winning streak, fueled by Sam Montembeault's impressive 35-save performance in a recent 4-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. This win has solidified their eight-point lead for the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Defensive stalwart Kaiden Guhle believes the team must maintain their intensity, stressing that the job is not yet done. With four games remaining in the season, securing at least 90 points is crucial to fend off competition from teams like the New York Rangers and Columbus Blue Jackets.

Head coach Martin St. Louis acknowledges the team's growth, expressing pride in their resilience. The Canadiens, who have not made the playoffs since 2021, are eager to experience the electrifying atmosphere of postseason hockey at the Bell Centre. Players like Cole Caufield understand the significance of the moment, emphasizing the need to stay focused and not let opportunities slip away after a challenging start to the season. With Montembeault hitting a career milestone of 30 wins, the team looks set to improve on their previous seasons' struggles.

Kaiden Guhle, defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens, is set to travel with the team for their upcoming road trip, marking a significant step in his recovery after undergoing surgery for a lacerated quadriceps muscle back in January. The 23-year-old, who had been performing well with 14 points in 44 games before his injury, skated in a regular jersey during Monday's practice, signaling his return to form.

Despite the Canadiens holding a playoff spot with 75 points, GM Kent Hughes has emphasized caution in bringing Guhle back, stating they will not rush him into the lineup. The Canadiens will embark on a four-game road trip, beginning with a matchup against the St. Louis Blues, with coach Martin St. Louis confirming Sam Montembeault as the starting goalie for the game.

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle is set to join the team on its upcoming road trip after successfully recovering from a quadriceps muscle surgery performed in January. Guhle, who was a significant asset to the Canadiens' defense with four goals and ten assists in 44 games, participated in a practice session wearing a regular jersey for the first time since his injury on January 28 against the Winnipeg Jets.

Prior to the injury, Guhle played a vital role in the team's defensive strategies. General manager Kent Hughes indicated that the team would not hasten his return if playoff prospects dwindled. As of now, the Canadiens are in the race, holding the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference with 75 points, just ahead of the New York Rangers.