Montreal Canadiens vs. Florida Panthers – Game Recap (January 9, 2026)
Hear’s a recap of the game based on the provided text, focusing on key events and scoring:
First Period:
* The period started with a near-disaster for the Canadiens as Jayden Struble’s blunder behind the net almost led to a goal, but Samuel Montembeault made a crucial save.
* Juraj Slafkovsky assisted with a skate pass to Oliver Kapanen,who scored to give the Canadiens a 1-0 lead.
Second Period:
* Samuel Montembeault briefly faltered, passing the puck directly to Sam Bennett, who scored for the Panthers, tying the game 1-1.
* Alexandre Texier scored to restore the Canadiens’ lead, making it 2-1.
Third Period:
* Early in the period, Philipe Danault was called for a questionable high-sticking penalty.The Panthers failed to capitalize on the power play.
* Alexandre Texier scored again, extending the Canadiens’ lead to 3-1. he nearly had a hat trick.
* Sam Bennett scored his second goal of the game, reducing the Canadiens’ lead to 3-2.
Final Score: The Canadiens won 3-2.
Key Players:
* Samuel Montembeault (MTL): Made key saves, but also had a costly turnover.
* Alexandre Texier (MTL): Scored two goals and was a significant offensive force.
* Juraj Slafkovsky (MTL): Assisted on a goal.
* Sam Bennett (FLA): Scored two goals for the Panthers.
The game featured some defensive miscues, a controversial penalty call, and strong performances from several key players on both sides. The Canadiens ultimately held on for the win, despite a late push from the defending champion Panthers.
Related reading