Canadiens Rally to Defeat Kings in Late-Game Surge

LOS ANGELES — The Montreal Canadiens secured a 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday night, fueled by a late-game comeback led by Juraj Slafkovsky and Nick Suzuki. This win marked the Canadiens’ NHL-leading 20th comeback victory of the season.

Game Recap

The Canadiens salvaged the final game of their three-game California road trip with a dramatic surge in the third period. Jakub Dobes made 35 saves for Montreal, proving crucial in keeping the game within reach.

First Period

The Kings opened the scoring late in the first period with a goal from captain Anze Kopitar, his seventh of the season and first since December 8th, ending a 21-game goal drought. TSN reported that the Canadiens struggled with shot selection and passing in the first period, being outshot 16-1.

Second Period

Jake Evans tied the game for Montreal early in the second period. Juraj Slafkovsky then gave the Canadiens the lead with a skillful individual effort, scoring his 50th point of the season and becoming the first Canadiens player to record three 50-point seasons before turning 22. However, the Kings quickly responded with a goal from Scott Laughton.

Third Period

Alex Laferriere put the Kings ahead early in the third period. The Canadiens responded with a power play goal from Slafkovsky, tying the game with 49 seconds remaining on the man advantage. Just 4:33 later, Slafkovsky assisted on the game-winning goal by captain Nick Suzuki, completing the comeback.

Key Players

• Juraj Slafkovsky: Scored two goals and added an assist, leading the Canadiens’ offensive charge.
• Nick Suzuki: Scored the game-winning goal and recorded two assists.
• Jakub Dobes: Made 35 saves, providing a solid performance in net for Montreal.
• Anze Kopitar: Scored his seventh goal of the season for the Kings, ending a 21-game drought.

Looking Ahead

The Canadiens will return home to host the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday. The Kings, who have lost seven of their last nine games, will continue their season under interim head coach D.J. Smith. CBS News noted that the Kings acquired Scott Laughton in a trade with Toronto on Friday, who scored in his debut.