What observers say
“I told you so,” exclaimed Cole Caufield after the Montreal Canadiens secured a decisive 5-2 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes on March 25, 2026. This win was pivotal for the Canadiens, not only because it showcased their young talent but also because it significantly boosted their playoff chances from 84% to 92%.
Jakub Dobeš, the rookie goaltender, made a career-high 41 saves during the match, earning his 23rd win of the season, which leads all NHL rookie goalies. His performance was crucial in keeping the Hurricanes at bay, allowing the Canadiens to capitalize on their offensive opportunities.
In addition to Dobeš’s stellar performance, Oliver Kapanen also shone brightly, scoring his 21st goal of the season. This goal tied him for second among rookie scorers, just one behind his teammate Matthew Schaefer. Kapanen’s contributions have been vital as the Canadiens navigate a tight playoff race, with seven teams within three points of each other.
Ivan Demidov, another key rookie for the Canadiens, scored a goal and provided an assist during the game. His contributions have placed him in a tie for the rookie points lead, underscoring the importance of the young players in the Canadiens’ playoff push. “He’s been doing it all year,” Caufield noted, highlighting Demidov’s consistency and impact on the ice.
The Canadiens’ young core, including Dobeš, Demidov, and Kapanen, has been instrumental in their current playoff positioning. As they prepare for their next game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the team is keenly aware of the importance of maintaining their momentum. “It’s a lot of onus on young goalies to be in these moments down the stretch with how tight things are,” remarked Noah Dobson, emphasizing the pressure faced by the rookies.
Coach Martin St. Louis echoed this sentiment, stating, “You try to get it back one shift at a time, one action at a time.” This approach reflects the team’s strategy as they continue to fight for a playoff spot, with the contributions of their rookies proving to be a significant factor in their success.
As the Canadiens look ahead, their next challenge will be against the Columbus Blue Jackets, where they will aim to build on their recent success and solidify their playoff position. The contributions from players like Demidov will be crucial as the team seeks to navigate the final stretch of the season.
