“I felt like my confidence was always there; it’s just feeling comfortable, feeling good, and playing good hockey with the team,” said Jakub Dobes after his standout performance helped the Montreal Canadiens secure a thrilling 4-3 victory over the New Jersey Devils in a shootout on April 4, 2026.
With this win, the Canadiens extended their winning streak to eight games, a remarkable achievement that marks their second-longest streak in the past 30 years. This run has propelled them to a total of 100 points for the first time since the 2016-17 season, a significant milestone for the franchise.
In a game that showcased the resilience of the Canadiens, Dobes made an impressive 35 saves, ensuring his team remained competitive throughout the match. Goals from Jayden Struble, Ivan Demidov, and Lane Hutson set the stage for a nail-biting finish.
The Devils fought back valiantly, with Timo Meier scoring to tie the game at 3-3, showcasing the fierce competition between these two teams. Jack Hughes and Meier each contributed a goal and an assist, demonstrating their offensive prowess.
Montreal’s victory was particularly sweet as they had not defeated New Jersey in two years prior to this matchup. The Canadiens are now tied with the Buffalo Sabres and only two points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Atlantic Division, intensifying the race for playoff positioning.
Defenceman Mike Matheson also reached a personal milestone, playing in his 700th career game, adding to the celebratory atmosphere for the Canadiens.
Despite the win, head coach Martin St. Louis acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “I think we’re a good team… Tonight wasn’t our best, but we found a way.”
As the Canadiens continue their pursuit of the playoffs, Dobes emphasized the team’s focus, saying, “We’re trying to finish first; that’s the main focus right now.”
With their current momentum, the Canadiens look poised to make a significant impact as the season progresses. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if they can maintain this winning streak and secure a favorable position in the playoffs.
Details remain unconfirmed.
