The Montreal Canadiens delivered a statement performance on Thursday night, led by a breakout star who was nearly out of the league just weeks ago. Alexandre Texier scored three goals, pacing the Habs to a convincing 6-2 victory over the slumping, yet still formidable, two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers at the Bell Centre.
From Waivers to First-Line Hero
The story of the night was Texier, whose career has been resurrected in Montreal. After balking at a minor-league assignment from the St. Louis Blues and being placed on unconditional waivers, the winger was scooped up by the Canadiens. Playing on the top line with Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, Texier has found new life. His hat-trick against Florida came just 24 hours after notching a goal and two assists in a 4-1 win over Calgary.
"I think everyone believes they’re still good players," said captain Nick Suzuki, praising the team's culture. "They didn’t forget how to play hockey... Our culture in our room helps guys be themselves. Everyone’s accepted. Some coaches and management stop believing in guys and they get moved. We’re happy to have those guys on our team."
Texier was humble in his assessment, stating, "It’s just the opportunity they gave me. You’ve got to take it when they give you something."
Dominance Over the Champions
The victory marked the seventh consecutive time the Canadiens have defeated the Panthers, a remarkable streak against the league's recent powerhouse. Despite Florida being decimated by injuries this season, the streak is a significant point of pride for a Montreal team that continues to evolve.
Florida coach Paul Maurice's pre-game comments proved prophetic. "Montreal is an evolving, changing, highly skilled team," he said following an optional morning skate. "We’re still learning how to play against them." The lesson on Thursday night was a harsh one, as the Canadiens controlled much of the play.
Key Moments and Performances
The Canadiens set the tone early. Oliver Kapanen won a key faceoff against Sam Bennett, leading directly to defenceman Noah Dobson’s game-opening goal—his eighth of the season. Juraj Slafkovsky later made a spectacular kick-pass to Kapanen, who made it 2-0.
While the Canadiens managed only 12 shots through two periods, they were devastatingly efficient. Texier scored his first goal on Montreal's only shot of the second period until the 13:41 mark. His third goal was a highlight-reel play, batting the puck out of mid-air to complete his hat-trick.
In net, Samuel Montembeault secured his third straight win since an AHL conditioning stint, posting a .926 save percentage despite a notable error—a blind, behind-the-back pass that was intercepted by Bennett for Florida's first goal. "Obviously, I made a bad pass," Montembeault admitted. "I’m happy with the game but, obviously, that goal I’d like to take back."
Team Trends and Supporting Stats
The win improved Montreal's record to an impressive 10-2-3 since December 11, signaling a team hitting its stride. The club's rookies continue to shine, having combined for 26 goals—the most in the NHL. Oliver Kapanen leads all NHL freshmen with 15 of those tallies.
Other notable performances included Dobson (one goal, four shots, three blocks), and the physical presence of Arber Xhekaj, who delivered the hit of the night on Jack Studnicka. The Canadiens' penalty kill was perfect, going 3-for-3, though the power play struggled, finishing 0-for-4.
For the Panthers, goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky had a night to forget, allowing five goals on 19 shots for a .737 save percentage before Montreal's sixth goal found an empty net.
As the final horn sounded, the message was clear: the Canadiens, bolstered by savvy management moves and a rejuvenated Alexandre Texier, are building something formidable, one complete victory at a time.
