In a thrilling display of resilience, the Montreal Canadiens snatched victory from the jaws of defeat on Tuesday night, scoring late in regulation before completing a dramatic 3-2 overtime win against the Florida Panthers.
A Dramatic Comeback in Sunrise
The game, played on December 30, 2025, at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, seemed destined for a Panthers victory until the final minutes of the third period. The Canadiens, refusing to go quietly, found a way to tie the game and force an extra frame, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Suzuki Seals the Deal in Overtime
The hero of the night was Canadiens center Nick Suzuki. In the overtime period, Suzuki found the back of the net, beating Panthers goaltender Daniil Tarasov to secure the two points for Montreal. The goal capped off a hard-fought battle and handed the Panthers a stunning loss on home ice.
The victory was particularly notable as it spoiled a significant night for Panthers forward Brad Marchand. While the original report did not specify the nature of Marchand's milestone, the Canadiens' rally undoubtedly put a damper on his personal celebration.
Implications and Looking Ahead
This character-building win demonstrates the never-say-die attitude of the young Canadiens squad. Coming from behind against a formidable opponent like the Panthers provides a significant boost in confidence. For Florida, it's a tough lesson in closing out games, especially when holding a lead late in regulation.
The result adds another chapter to the evolving rivalry between these two clubs and gives Montreal momentum as they continue their season. The game-winning play, captured by photographer Lynne Sladky, will stand as a memorable moment in the 2025-26 NHL campaign.
