Canadiens Secure Victory in Ottawa
The Montreal Canadiens triumphed over the Ottawa Senators with a score of 3-2 in a closely contested game held at the Centre Canadian Tire in Ottawa on March 12, 2026. Ivan Demidov scored the decisive goal with just 7:20 remaining in the match, marking a significant moment for the Canadiens.
Jacob Fowler, the Canadiens’ goaltender, made an impressive 32 saves during the game, earning his first win with the team since January 7. This victory also marked the Canadiens’ third consecutive win, placing them in a tie with the Tampa Bay Lightning for second place in the Atlantic Division, both teams now boasting 82 points.
In a notable performance, Juraj Slafkovsky set a new record for the most points in Canadiens history before the age of 22, reaching a total of 164 points. Meanwhile, Alexandre Texier made a successful return to the lineup by scoring a goal, adding depth to the Canadiens’ offensive efforts.
Drake Batherson stood out for the Senators, scoring two goals in the match, but it was not enough to secure a win for his team. The Senators are now five points behind the Boston Bruins for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with Montreal fans chanting “Go Habs Go” throughout the game, creating a home-like environment for the visiting team.
Martin St-Louis, head coach of the Canadiens, commented on the importance of the win, stating, “You do not want to leave points on the table,” and noted the game’s intensity, describing it as “an intense and physical game.”
Fowler also acknowledged the challenges faced during the match, saying, “We were missing a big piece tonight, but several players stepped up,” highlighting the team’s resilience.
As the season progresses, the Canadiens continue to build momentum, with Demidov reaching 50 points this season through a goal and an assist in this game. The team’s performance will be crucial as they aim for a strong finish in the playoff race.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any injuries or lineup changes following this match, but the Canadiens’ recent form suggests they are becoming a formidable contender in the league.
