The Montreal Canadiens host the New Jersey Devils on Sunday night, looking to extend their winning streak to nine games.
Before Sunday, the Habs knew they would have to defeat the Devils in their second game against the club in as many nights to qualify for the playoffs, however, the Detroit Red Wings had the playoff berth clear before they even took to the ice.
By losing 5–4 to the Minnesota Wild, the Red Wings ensured that the Canadiens officially qualified for the 2026 NHL playoffs.
This led to an unexpected lack of punches from the Habs, giving the Devils a 3-0 decision.
For a view from the other side of the rink, be sure to visit our sister site, New Jersey Hockey Now.
Let's look at the highlights!
lean Startup
The Habs managed to generate only two high-danger chances at 5v5 during 40 minutes of play, while the Devils were allowed to take six high-quality shots.
As a result, the Devils took a two-goal lead into the second intermission on goals from Timo Meier and Cody Glass.
The latter scored a particularly good goal from a strong individual effort.
On a solo mission. pic.twitter.com/TXk9ToOXut
- New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) 6 April 2026
Sparks fly
Montreal's energy level improved early in the third period, following a vicious strike from Zachary Bolduc that fouled Luke Hughes.
The chaotic play led to a Canadiens power play, not to mention a questionable decision by Hughes when Bolduc began throwing punches while being tackled by a linesman.
Unfortunately, the Habs failed to take advantage on the power play, allowing what little excitement there was to fizzle out quickly. Even though the Canadiens lacked punch for most of the game, they missed three chances to score with the man advantage, eliminating any chance of another comeback late in the game.
Luke Hughes threw punches at Bolduc while he was restrained by the linesman. Not a great look. pic.twitter.com/SLLsQf6lIX
- Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 6 April 2026
The Montreal Canadiens are back in action on Tuesday facing the Florida Panthers at the Bell Centre. Puck drop is scheduled for 7pm ET.
All Montreal Canadiens stats are 5v5, via Natural Stat Trick, unless otherwise noted.
