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The recent showdown between the Montreal Canadiens and the New Jersey Devils on April 4, 2026, in Newark, N.J., was a remarkable display of skill and determination. Before this thrilling encounter, expectations were high for both teams. The Canadiens, having not reached 100 points since the 2016-17 season, were eager to solidify their position in the playoffs, while the Devils aimed to improve their standing in the competitive Atlantic Division.
As the game unfolded, the Canadiens took an early lead, scoring three goals before the Devils managed to tie the game at 3-3, thanks to Timo Meier’s crucial goal. This decisive moment shifted the momentum, showcasing the resilience of both teams. Ultimately, the Canadiens emerged victorious, winning 4-3 in a shootout, marking their eighth consecutive win and reaching the coveted 100-point milestone for the first time in years.
The immediate effects of this victory were significant for the Canadiens. With a record of 45-21-10, they now sit just two points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Atlantic Division, enhancing their playoff prospects. Jakub Dobes, the Canadiens’ goaltender, made an impressive 35 saves, demonstrating his growing confidence and skill. “I felt like my confidence was always there; it’s just feeling comfortable, feeling good, and playing good hockey with the team,” Dobes remarked after the game.
On the other hand, the Devils, who currently hold a record of 39-34-3, faced a setback that could impact their playoff aspirations. Despite Jack Hughes scoring his 25th goal of the season, the team struggled to maintain their momentum after tying the game. Jake Allen, the Canadiens’ goaltender, commented on the unpredictability of overtime, stating, “Overtime is a crap shoot; there’s no theories, no structure, no nothing.” This highlights the intense pressure both teams faced in the final moments of the game.
As the Canadiens celebrate their success, Cole Caufield stands just one goal shy of reaching the impressive milestone of 50 goals this season. His performance has been a key factor in the team’s resurgence, and fans are eager to see if he can achieve this feat in their upcoming rematch against the Devils in Montreal. “Caufield will get another shot Sunday when these two teams face off again in Montreal,” an analyst noted, adding to the excitement surrounding the rivalry.
Putting this shift in perspective, the Canadiens’ achievement of reaching 100 points is not just a number; it symbolizes their growth and determination as a team. The last time they reached this milestone, they were a different team, and this season’s success reflects their hard work and commitment. As they prepare for the playoffs, the Canadiens are focused on securing the best possible position to start at home, as Dobes emphasized, “I feel 100 points is good, but we’re trying to get the best possible position for us to start (the Stanley Cup Playoffs) at home.”
In contrast, the Devils must regroup and reassess their strategy moving forward. With the playoffs on the horizon, every game counts, and this loss serves as a wake-up call for the team. As they look to bounce back, the rivalry between the Canadiens and Devils promises to bring more thrilling moments in the future.
