Canadiens Surge Past Bruins, Caufield Reaches Milestone in 3-2 Overtime Victory

The Montreal Canadiens overcame a losing streak, securing a 3-2 overtime win against the Boston Bruins on March 18, 2026. Key performances from Juraj Slafkovský, Nick Suzuki, and Cole Caufield propelled the Canadiens to victory, whereas Bruins captain Patrice Bergeron had a notable night as well.

Slafkovský’s Assist Sparks Canadiens’ Comeback

Juraj Slafkovský played a pivotal role in the Canadiens’ offensive efforts, recording his 32nd assist of the season with a crucial pass to captain Nick Suzuki. Suzuki capitalized on the opportunity, beating Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman with a backhand shot to tie the game. Slafkovský likewise contributed a goal, marking his fourth consecutive game with a score.

Caufield Reaches 40-Goal Milestone

Cole Caufield etched his name in Canadiens history, scoring the overtime winner and reaching the 40-goal mark for the season. This achievement makes him the first Montreal player to score 40 goals in a season since Vincent Damphousse in the 1993-94 season. Caufield emphasized the team effort behind his accomplishment, stating, “It’s obviously something special, but it says a lot about where the team is going and if it’s the right direction. It’s a lot of work, a lot of great teammates, and coaches. It’s a team sport, and I can’t do it without my teammates. I’m just lucky to be part of this group.”

Bruins Fall Despite Pastrňák’s Streak

Despite the loss, Boston Bruins forward David Pastrňák extended his point streak against the Canadiens to 14 games, with an assist on a goal by Pavel Zacha. Pastrňák now has 24 points (six goals, 18 assists) during this streak, which began on January 24, 2023. Zacha scored two goals for the Bruins.

Other NHL Results – March 18, 2026

• Edmonton Oilers – San Jose Sharks 5-3: The Oilers secured a win despite playing their first game without Leon Draisaitl, who is sidelined with a lower-body injury.
• Toronto Maple Leafs – New York Islanders 1-3: Brayden Schenn scored his first goal for the Islanders in his fifth game with the team.
• Columbus Blue Jackets – Carolina Hurricanes 5-1: Charlie Coyle led the Blue Jackets with a goal and three assists.
• Chicago Blackhawks – Minnesota Wild 3-4 (OT): Minnesota extended their point streak against Chicago to 19 games.
• Winnipeg Jets – Nashville Predators 3-4 (SO): Juuse Saros made 36 saves for the Predators.
• Vancouver Canucks – Florida Panthers 5-2: Elias Pettersson ended a 20-game goal drought, scoring twice.
• Vegas Golden Knights – Buffalo Sabres 0-2: Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen recorded a shutout for the Sabres.
• Seattle Kraken – Tampa Bay Lightning 2-6: Nikita Kučerov scored a hat trick for the Lightning.

NHL Standings

(Standings information not provided in source material.)