Dobes Delivers Heroics as Canadiens Edge Golden Knights in Overtime Thriller
In a performance that defied his season statistics, Montreal Canadiens goaltender Jakub Dobes turned aside 32 of 34 shots, posting a stellar .941 save percentage to backstop his team to a crucial 3-2 overtime victory against the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday night at the Bell Centre. The win snapped a two-game losing skid for the Canadiens and showcased Dobes' resilience under pressure.
A Netminder Rising to the Occasion
Playing his first game in a week, the acrobatic Dobes was tested early, allowing the game's opening goal on Vegas's seventh shot less than nine minutes into the first period. Rather than falter, he settled in, making several key stops to keep Montreal within reach. His composure was further challenged when the Golden Knights tied the score with under four minutes remaining in regulation, threatening to steal a point. Dobes, however, stood firm, particularly in the third period where he turned away 12 of 13 shots.
"Every time you win you're good enough," Dobes remarked post-game. "It was good enough today. I was feeling good." His record improved to an impressive 16-5-3 on the season, including a 5-0-1 mark in his last six starts. This victory also marked his first career win against Vegas.
Offensive Sparks and Historic Milestones
While Dobes anchored the defense, the offense received a significant boost from Cole Caufield. The dynamic winger scored his 30th goal of the season, giving Montreal a 2-1 lead in the second period. In doing so, Caufield became the fastest Canadiens player to reach the 30-goal plateau since Stéphane Richer accomplished the feat during the 1989-90 campaign.
"That's how hockey goes," Caufield said of his recent surge, which has seen him net nine goals in his last six games. "You can go a couple of games without a goal. I like where my game's at right now. I'm getting a lot of chances. Happy to get to 30 again."
The game-winner came off the stick of Jake Evans in overtime, sealing a hard-fought two points for the home side. The victory was Montreal's first regular-season win against Vegas at the Bell Centre since January 18, 2020.
Key Contributions and Game Details
Vegas was led by Pavel Dorofeyev, who scored both Golden Knights goals, bringing his total to seven in his last seven contests. For Montreal, Phillip Danault deflected a Zachary Bolduc shot past Vegas goaltender Akira Schmid to tie the game 1-1 in the second period. It was Danault's second goal in 17 games since being acquired from the Los Angeles Kings.
The game was not without its controversies. The Canadiens went 0-for-4 on the power play, and several penalty calls were questioned, including a hooking minor assessed to Caufield that later drew an apology from officials. Defenseman Noah Dobson praised the team's response after the late tying goal. "At the end of the day it happens. When they tied it up there was no panic. We stayed composed. But the way we responded and were able to get that extra point in overtime was huge."
Looking Ahead
The Canadiens now turn their attention to a formidable Thursday night matchup against the Colorado Avalanche, the NHL's top team. Given his performance against Vegas, there is a strong case for Dobes to earn a second consecutive start. His ability to "stop the bleeding" and deliver under pressure provides Montreal with a significant boost as they navigate the grueling NHL schedule.
This victory not only halted a brief losing streak but also reinforced the Canadiens' resilience at home. With Dobes providing elite goaltending and Caufield reaching a historic scoring pace, Montreal has reasons for optimism as they prepare for their next challenge.
