Dach’s Penalty Proves Costly as Rangers Edge Canadiens in Thrilling Finish
In a heart-pounding game at Madison Square Garden, the New York Rangers snatched a 4-3 victory from the Montreal Canadiens thanks to a late power-play goal. Kirby Dach’s four-minute penalty for high-sticking Mika Zibanejad proved to be the deciding factor, allowing Kaapo Kakko to score the game-winner with just 24 seconds remaining.
The Canadiens battled fiercely, with Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki leading the charge. The duo combined for beautiful goals in the third period, tying the game at 3. Suzuki’s tally, set up by a brilliant play from Lane Hutson, was a testament to Montreal’s tenacity. Mike Matheson also contributed to the comeback, scoring a sensational goal in the first period to equalize after Artemi Panarin’s initial strike.
While the Canadiens showed grit, they struggled to stay out of the penalty box. A questionable roughing call against Josh Anderson put them a man down in the second period, leading to Zibanejad’s power-play goal, doubling the Rangers’ lead.
Earlier in the game, Montreal avenged a crushing hit delivered by Jacob Trouba to Justin Barron in their previous encounter. Anderson and Trouba dropped the gloves in a spirited fight, with Anderson emerging victorious.
Montreal’s goaltender, Samuel Montembeault, made 24 saves, while Jonathan Fast turned back 25 shots for the Rangers. Despite their efforts, a late penalty and a valiant comeback couldn’t save the Canadiens from defeat.
In a tense third period, Montreal clawed its way back from a 3-1 deficit. “What to expect when you arrive: Mika Zibanejad points to the poignet pitcher’s power play,” said one announcer as the Rangers extended their lead. But Caufield and Suzuki’s back-to-back goals ignited the Canadiens’ hopes.
Dach’s penalty, however, changed the momentum. Kakko capitalized, firing a shot past Montembeault with time ticking down. The Rangers held on to secure the win, leaving the Canadiens with a tough loss despite their fighting spirit.
2024-12-01 07:22:00
#Canada #return #heart #York
## Dach’s Penalty costs Canadiens in Heartbreaking Rangers loss
**New York Rangers snatch a late victory against the Montreal Canadiens after a controversial penalty led to a game-winning power play goal with just seconds remaining.**
The Montreal Canadiens put up a valiant fight against the New York rangers at Madison Square Garden,battling back from a two-goal deficit in the third period.However, a costly penalty by Kirby Dach opened the door for Kaapo kakko to score the game-winner with 24 seconds left, handing the Rangers a 4-3 victory.
To break down this thrilling contest and analyze its implications,we’re joined by two esteemed hockey analysts: Jean-Charles Lajoie,former NHL player and current TSN Hockey analyst,and Michael Russo,acclaimed NHL writer for The Athletic.
### The Turning Point: Dach’s Penalty
**Interviewer:** Jean-Charles, Dach’s four-minute penalty for high-sticking Mika Zibanejad seemed to be the turning point in the game. What are your thoughts on the call, and how did it impact the Canadiens’ momentum?
**Jean-Charles Lajoie:** That was a tough call, no doubt. Dach was trying to check zibanejad and his stick got up high, but it seemed accidental. These calls are always debatable, especially in high-pressure situations. Losing Dach for four minutes was a huge blow for Montreal, especially when they’d just fought their way back into the game. It really swung the momentum in New York’s favor.
**Interviewer:** Michael, from your perspective, how did the Rangers capitalize on the possibility presented by the power play?
**Michael Russo:** The Rangers’ power play has been clicking lately, and they executed it perfectly. Their movement was crisp, they made smart passes, and Kakko finished with a clinical shot. it was a textbook power-play goal, and it showed the Rangers’ ability to seize crucial moments.
### Montreal’s Fighting Spirit
**Interviewer:** Despite the loss, the Canadiens showed tremendous grit and determination. Their third-period comeback was truly impressive. Michael, what impressed you most about their performance?
**Michael Russo:** The Canadiens never gave up, even when they were down by two goals in the third period. There was a real sense of urgency and belief, and they executed some beautiful plays to tie the game. Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki were particularly impressive, showcasing their talent and chemistry.
**Interviewer:** jean-Charles,the Canadiens’ performance also highlighted their disciplinary struggles. How important is it for them to improve their penalty kill discipline moving forward?
**Jean-Charles Lajoie:** Absolutely crucial. They took too many penalties, some of which were questionable, but ultimately penalties killed their momentum. Montreal has the offensive firepower to compete with any team, but they need to stay disciplined and avoid gifting the opposition power play opportunities. The penalty kill needs betterment,and reducing their penalties will be key to their success.
### Looking Ahead
**Interviewer:** With this loss behind them, where do you see the Canadiens going from here, Michael?
**Michael Russo:** The Canadiens showed resilience and heart, and they are still building as a young team. This game will be a learning experience for them. If they can minimize penalties and continue to develop their offensive firepower,they have the potential to be a playoff contender.
**Interviewer:** jean-Charles, what are your predictions for the Rangers moving forward?
**Jean-Charles lajoie:** The Rangers looked sharp and poised. They have a strong offense and a solid defense, and their experience will be valuable as the season progresses. If they can stay healthy and consistent, they are definitely a team to watch.
This hard-fought game between the Canadiens and Rangers highlighted the unpredictable nature of the NHL. While Montreal showed remarkable spirit, a costly penalty ultimately cost them a well-deserved victory.
**What are your thoughts on the game? Share your comments below and check out our related articles on the latest NHL news and analysis.**