Montreal, January 6, 2025 — Kirby Dach scored a pivotal powerplay goal for the Montreal Canadiens against the Vancouver Canucks, leading his team to a thrilling 5-4 overtime victory at the Bell Centre. The goal, netted at 13:21 during the third period, was more than just another point on the scoreboard; it marked Dach's fourth goal in six games, symbolizing not just his personal resurgence but also reflecting the Canadiens' collective improvement as they navigated their way back to playoff contention.
For much of the game, the Canucks struggled to assert themselves, registering only one shot on goal during even-strength play with Dach on the ice. This glaring statistic pointed to the defining role Dach and his linemate Alex Newhook played, limiting the Canucks' chances and controlling the pace of play. The night was particularly significant for both players as they have often found themselves overwhelmed on the ice this season, consistently defending rather than attacking.
The powerplay goal tied the game and underscored the growing self-belief within the Canadiens' locker room. Dach, who was originally hindered by injuries upon his return from nearly a year away from the NHL, expressed optimism about the team's progress. "I think we’ve got a lot of self-belief. It definitely helps... we’re doing the right things over and over and over and we’re getting results out of it," he said after the game. This sentiment encapsulates how the young Canadiens are beginning to find their footing, especially after their recent successful road trip across four different time zones.
The Canadiens' ability to dominate the early stretches of the game was evident when their fourth line set the tone right from the opening faceoff, neutralizing the Canucks' top players. Kaiden Guhle made headlines with his physical play, delivering a crushing hit on Vancouver rookie Jonathan Lekkerimäki, serving as both motivation for his team and a reminder of the high-stakes involved.
Goals throughout the game illustrated the team's growth and opportunities arising from individual efforts, including Cole Caufield, who opened the scoring, and Lane Hutson, who added to the tally with his deft play. Hutson's goal, particularly special for him as it was against one of his role models, Quinn Hughes, demonstrated the potential of the Canadiens' young guns.
Despite the jubilation of the moment, the Canadiens' young core, including Caufield and Guhle, remained focused on the road ahead. "Still got 40 more to go," Caufield reminded, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum and not resting on laurels as they sit within playoff position for the first time this season.
Head coach Martin St. Louis echoed this sentiment, focusing on the present and motivating the players to embrace their development. "You know, for me, I talk to the individual the way I probably talk to the team as well...Stay the course, and I think, like I say to the team, you do ordinary things over and over," he emphasized. This guidance from St. Louis is particularly poignant as it adheres to the growing identity of the Canadiens, one they hope is rooted firmly in resilience and teamwork.
The victory against the Canucks not only assisted the Canadiens' quest for playoff positioning but served to solidify the belief within the team. Dach’s powerplay goal was more than just another highlight; it signified rebirth—a movement from inconsistency to steady development. The game illustrated how the fortunes of individual players intertwine with the broader aspirations of the team. With their spirits high and confidence restored, the Canadiens are eager to capitalize on their hard-won lessons as they push toward the season's end.
Such moments define seasons and careers alike; as Dach and his teammates shine brightly, the Canadiens, led by their youthful energy and determination, are crafting something special. The focus remains on the present, but as eyewitnesses to their progress, fans can feel the excitement building for what lies next.