Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin turned back the clock with a spectacular performance against the Montreal Canadiens, scoring three goals in an 8-4 victory at the Bell Centre on Thursday night. The 40-year-old superstar delivered his latest dominant showing against a Montreal team that continues to search for answers during a difficult stretch of their season.
Ovechkin's Dominance Over Montreal Continues
The legendary forward now boasts 42 career goals in 61 games against the Canadiens, demonstrating his particular proficiency against the historic franchise. Ovechkin's hat trick included an empty-net goal from 180 feet that found dead centre of the net, showcasing the precision that has defined his career.
This performance extends Ovechkin's goal-scoring streak to four consecutive games, signaling that the veteran remains a formidable force in the NHL. The game marked the first meeting between the teams since Washington eliminated Montreal in five games during last season's playoff opening round.
Canadiens' Goaltending Struggles Exposed
Montreal's netminding situation reached a crisis point during the lopsided contest. Starter Sam Montembeault was pulled just under four minutes into the second period after allowing three goals on only 10 shots, resulting in a dismal .700 save percentage. He was beaten on the very first shot he faced.
Replacement Jakub Dobes provided little relief, surrendering four goals on 25 shots for an .840 save percentage. The Canadiens have now allowed at least four goals in half of their 20 games this season, highlighting systemic defensive issues that extend beyond the crease.
Controversial Hit Mars Contest
The game featured several contentious moments, most notably when Washington's Tom Wilson delivered a forceful hit on Jake Evans in the second period. The Canadiens forward, who has previously suffered concussions, retreated to the dressing room and did not return to the game.
Montreal captain Nick Suzuki expressed frustration with the non-call, stating, "I thought it was a bit of a charge. It seemed like it was pretty high. The refs told me they didn't see it that way."
Brendan Gallagher, who scored his first goal of the season in the losing effort, acknowledged the team's defensive struggles. "There's lapses in our defensive game right now," Gallagher said. "We're not playing to our identity. We've gotten away from that."
The victory extends Washington's remarkable run against Montreal, with the Capitals having earned at least a point in 23 of their last 25 meetings dating back to November 28, 2009.
