In a thrilling display of skill and strategy, the Montreal Canadiens triumphed over the Colorado Avalanche with a decisive score of 7-3 on January 29, 2026. Nick Suzuki shone brightly in this match, contributing significantly by netting both a power-play goal and a short-handed goal, along with an assist. This victory is particularly noteworthy given that the Avalanche, who previously led the NHL standings, have seen their performance decline, losing six out of their last eight games, bringing their record to 35 wins, 8 losses, and 9 ties.
The excitement kicked off early in the game when Noah Dobson scored just 56 seconds after the puck was dropped, setting the tone for the Canadiens. The second period saw a flurry of action, with Jake Evans and Kirby Dach each scoring within a rapid 40-second interval late in the period. Notably, this game marked Dach’s return to form, as he scored his first goal and point since making a comeback from a lengthy 31-game absence, which began on January 20.
As the third period unfolded, Alexandre Carrier and Juraj Slafkovsky added to the Canadiens' tally, while Jakub Dobes showcased his prowess in goal, making 26 saves. Dobes has been on an impressive streak, boasting a record of 7 wins, no losses, and 1 tie in his last eight appearances.
For the Avalanche, Brock Nelson, Joel Kiviranta, and Ross Colton managed to find the back of the net, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide. Goaltender Scott Wedgewood faced 28 shots, stopping 21, but ultimately could not stem the flow of goals from the Canadiens.
An interesting note from the game was the Avalanche's choice to wear powder blue jerseys reminiscent of the Quebec Nordiques, paying tribute to their franchise's former roots in Quebec City.
Looking ahead, the Avalanche are set to face off against the Detroit Red Wings this Saturday, while the Canadiens will take on the Buffalo Sabres on the same night. Will the Canadiens maintain their momentum, or will the Avalanche rebound? Only time will tell!
AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl
