Power Play Precision Lifts Canadiens Past Oilers at the Bell Centre
If you’re looking for a clear example of how special teams can swing a hockey game, this one between the Montreal Canadiens and the Edmonton Oilers told that story perfectly. On Sunday night at the Bell Centre, the Canadiens leaned heavily on their power play and walked away with a convincing 4–1 win, putting together one of their more controlled performances of the season.
From the opening puck drop, it felt like Montreal had a plan, and that plan was executed patiently. The lineup featured a few notable changes, with Jakub Dobes getting the start in goal and Samuel Montembeault backing him up. Jayden Struble returned to the lineup, while a few familiar names watched from the press box. None of that disrupted the rhythm, as the Canadiens settled in quickly and kept Edmonton from finding much early momentum.
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The breakthrough came midway through the second period, and it was delivered on the power play. Ivan Demidov opened the scoring with a clean finish that finally beat Calvin Pickard, and the energy in the building immediately shifted. Not long after, the Canadiens doubled their lead when Joe Veleno struck again, this time without any help, taking advantage of a breakdown and burying his chance to make it 2–0.
By the time the third period rolled around, Montreal showed no signs of sitting back. Another power play opportunity was converted, with captain Nick Suzuki getting on the board. Once again, the man advantage made the difference, and Edmonton was left chasing the game. The Oilers did manage to respond later in the period when Zach Hyman scored on a power play of their own, with Connor McDavid and Evan Bouchard picking up assists. But any hopes of a comeback were short-lived.
Alexandre Texier put the game out of reach with a late goal, restoring the three-goal cushion and effectively sealing the outcome. At the other end of the ice, Dobes quietly delivered a strong performance, turning aside 27 shots and giving his team the steady presence they needed. The Oilers pushed at times, but most of their chances were handled calmly.
When the final horn sounded, the story was simple. The Canadiens were sharper when it mattered most, especially on the power play, and that edge carried them to a deserved victory. With the win in hand, Montreal now looks ahead to the next challenge as their homestand continues, carrying confidence and momentum into the days ahead.
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