Montreal Canadiens Enter Olympic Break with Impressive Victory Over Winnipeg Jets
The Montreal Canadiens concluded their pre-Olympic break schedule with a commanding 5-1 victory over the Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. This win extends their recent success, giving them a 4-0-1 record in their last five games as they head into the three-week hiatus.
Key Players Overcome Season Struggles with Standout Performances
Two players who have faced challenges throughout the current campaign delivered exceptional performances when their team needed them most. Goaltender Samuel Montembeault secured his first victory since January 17 with an impressive 36-save effort, while veteran forward Brendan Gallagher contributed three points to boost his season total to 16.
Montembeault's performance was particularly noteworthy given that many fans had advocated for backup Jakub Dobes to start the game. Coach Martin St. Louis's decision to stick with his struggling netminder paid dividends, allowing Montembeault to enter the break with renewed confidence.
Game Progression and Scoring Details
The contest began with Winnipeg establishing early dominance, outshooting Montreal 8-0 at one point and taking a 1-0 lead on Kyle Connor's power-play goal at 6:07 of the first period. This marked Connor's 25th goal of the season, extending his streak to nine consecutive years with at least 25 goals.
Montreal responded before the period ended, with Oliver Kapanen capitalizing on a rebound at 16:26 to tie the game. The Canadiens then seized control in the second period with two quick goals.
Josh Anderson deflected a Jayden Struble shot past Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck at 7:42, followed just 1:16 later by rookie defenseman Lane Hutson scoring his tenth goal of the season. Hutson's milestone marker came despite limited space, as he expertly maneuvered the puck past Hellebuyck.
Third Period Dominance and Statistical Highlights
Gallagher added to Montreal's lead with a power-play goal in the third period, completing his three-point night. Phillip Danault sealed the victory with an empty-net goal after Winnipeg pulled their goaltender with over five minutes remaining. Anderson assisted on the final goal, giving him a three-point performance as well.
The Canadiens enter the Olympic break with 72 points in the standings, projecting to finish with approximately 104 points—a 13-point improvement over last season. Much of this success stems from offensive improvement, with the team ranking among the NHL's elite in goals scored with 197 at the time of this victory.
Team Momentum and Future Outlook
This victory provides significant momentum as Montreal prepares for their hiatus. The team will return to action on February 26 against the New York Islanders, where veterans like Gallagher, Anderson, and Danault will be counted on to provide leadership during the crucial stretch run.
Statistical analysis from Hockey Stat Cards confirmed the strong performances from Montreal's veteran players, indicating they "still have gas in the tank" despite earlier season struggles. The team's improved offensive output—on pace to exceed last year's goal total by nearly 40—combined with timely goaltending performances like Montembeault's, suggests promising potential for the remainder of the season.
