Ilya Sorokin is no stranger to success against the Montreal Canadiens, and the New York Islanders goaltender frustrated his opponents again Saturday night at UBS Arena in a 2-1 win.
The 27-year-old doorman had cleared the Habs during the visit to the Bell Center in Les Isles on April 15.
Solid as a wall, he closed the door for 136 consecutive minutes before finally being beaten by Nick Suzuki.
The captain gave his team a glimmer of hope by scoring with a fine individual effort midway through the third period. He made his way to Sorokin before lifting the disc just above the Russian’s leg guard.
It was Suzuki’s first goal since Dec. 17. Jonathan Drouin hasn’t filled the net lately either, but he has amassed his fourth assist in two games. . The team hasn’t scored two wins since November.
Let’s say the offense being limited to just 23 shots didn’t help.
Samuel Montembeault was once again bombarded, this time by 38 shots.
It was the third consecutive start for the Quebecer, who was supported by Cayden Primeau.
Against Nashville and the Seattle Kraken, the CH goalkeeper had been targeted by 40 and 42 shots.
The Islanders took an early lead when Casey Cizikas hit the target after 2:25.
Anthony Beauvillier doubled the lead less than four minutes later, on a generous return granted by Montembeault.
Already starting the game with only 11 forwards, the Canadian had to finish with 10 forwards.
Jake Evans, who was playing very good hockey lately, suffered an unfortunate injury in the first period, and did not return afterwards.
Following a face-off in central territory, Brock Nelson fell on the leg of the CH player. Evans had to be helped by his teammates to leave the icy surface.
Martin St-Louis’ men will stay in the Big Apple for their next duel, Sunday against the New York Rangers.
