Canadiens Edge Blackhawks in Nail-Biter
CHICAGO -- In a thrilling Original Six matchup, the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 3-2 on Saturday night. Kaiden Guhle's late goal, with just 15.7 seconds remaining, secured the victory for Montreal, spoiling Chicago's home opener.
The Canadiens showcased a balanced attack, with goals from Cole Caufield and Zach Bolduc in addition to Guhle's game-winner. Nick Suzuki contributed three assists, while goaltender Sam Montembeault made 20 saves to keep the Blackhawks at bay.
Chicago's Connor Bedard and Sam Rinzel found the back of the net for the Blackhawks, with Frank Nazar and Teuvo Teravainen each recording two assists. Spencer Knight stopped 25 shots in a losing effort.
Montreal opened the scoring at 2:45 of the second period when Caufield batted the puck out of the air and over Knight's shoulder on a power play. It was Caufield's first goal of the season. Rinzel responded for Chicago with his first career goal in his 12th game. However, the Canadiens quickly regained the lead as Bolduc stuffed home a power-play rebound at 5:45. Bolduc has now scored in each of his first two NHL games.
The Blackhawks, celebrating their centennial season, entered the game seeking their first win but ultimately fell short despite tying the score in the second period. Chicago struggled with penalties, being whistled 14 times for a total of 39 minutes. They managed to kill eight of Montreal's 10 power plays but went 1-for-4 with the man advantage themselves.
The game remained tied 2-2 until the final seconds. With time winding down, Guhle fired a long slap shot that found its way past Knight, sending the Canadiens to victory.
This win marks the Canadiens' second straight victory. The Blackhawks, on the other hand, have lost their third consecutive game to start the season.
The Canadiens continue their road trip against the New York Rangers on October 18, while the Blackhawks look to rebound against the Utah Mammoth.
