Overview

• Kaiden Guhle led the Canadiens with two goals, while Nick Suzuki and Jake Evans also contributed key scores in the decisive victory.
• Goaltender Sam Montembeault made 28 saves, helping Montreal eliminate the Columbus Blue Jackets from playoff contention.
• The Canadiens overcame three prior missed opportunities to clinch, sealing their spot in their regular-season finale at the Bell Centre.
• Carolina rested several top players, having already secured their playoff position, which influenced the competitive dynamics of the game.
• The cultural significance of the game in Quebec prompted the rescheduling of a federal election debate to accommodate viewership.