LAS VEGAS -- The Montreal Canadiens put a stop to the Vegas Golden Knights' six-game winning streak with a thrilling 3-2 victory on December 31, 2024. The Canadiens rallied back after trailing 2-0 late in the second period, showcasing resilience typical of their impressive form this December.
It was evident from the puck drop at T-Mobile Arena, both teams were ready for battle with plenty at stake. The Golden Knights had been on fire, securing their spot as one of the top teams in the NHL this season. Meanwhile, the Canadiens were eager to build momentum following successive wins against high-ranked opponents.
Gaining the upper hand early, the Golden Knights took leads on goals from Zach Whitecloud and Noah Hanifin. The Canadiens, faced with mounting pressure, found themselves struggling to navigate Vegas’ tight defense.
But as the second period wound down, the tide began to shift. The Canadiens outmaneuvered the Knights, maintaining composure and strategically striving for opportunities. Their tenacity bore fruit when Kirby Dach scored midway through the third period, igniting the Canadiens’ comeback. His goal came on precisely executed teamwork, where Dach deked past Vegas defenseman Brayden McNabb before slipping the puck past Adin Hill.
“Dach's goal came on a rush. He deked Vegas defenseman Brayden McNabb on his way to the net,” reported by AP.
Following Dach's goal, the momentum fully swung toward the Canadiens, and they capitalized on the Golden Knights’ uncharacteristic lapses and missed opportunities. Cole Caufield continued to shine, netting the 100th goal of his career, right after Emil Heineman added another, sealing the game for the Habs.
“Cole Caufield's goal was the 100th of his career,” the AP noted - another milestone moment for the young forward.
The Golden Knights, known for their military style of defense, found it hard to regain footing after the Canadiens' breakthrough. Despite holding strong leads earlier, they faced challenges during power-play opportunities, which they failed to convert. With fans on the edge of their seats, the final minutes saw Canadiens' goalie Sam Montembeault blocking numerous attempts, including two point-blank saves.
The Canadiens’ victory marked their sixth win in seven games, raising excitement levels as the team looks to solidify their stance this season. They have undoubtedly found their rhythm, particularly notable since Patrik Laine’s debut which has enhanced their power play tremendously.
Looking back at the contrasts displayed, the Golden Knights have still performed admirably throughout December, with the Canadiens merely managing to exploit their rare momentary slip. The challenges will continue for both teams as the Canadiens prepare to meet the Chicago Blackhawks and the Golden Knights gear up to face the Philadelphia Flyers.
This game now serves as pivotal for the Canadiens, representing both their competitive spirit and the prospect of solidifying their place as contenders. The season has plenty more to offer, with fans eager to see how these two teams build on this fast-paced and dramatic matchup.