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3 major takeaways from Montreal Canadiens' 3-0 preseason win vs New Jersey Devils

Modified Sep 25, 2024 02:21 GMT

The Montreal Canadiens are now 2-0 in the preseason after a convincing 3-0 win over the New Jersey Devils (0-2) at Bell Centre in Montreal on Tuesday night.

Michael Pezzetta scored twice and Nick Suzuki added his first of the preseason to seal the win. Sam Montembeault and Connor Hughes combined to make 24 saves for the shutout.

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For the Canadiens, this contest marks back-to-back shutouts in their first two preseason games this year. Here's a closer look at three major takeaways from the Canadiens' 3-0 preseason win over the Devils.

3 major takeaways from Montreal Canadiens' preseason win vs New Jersey Devils

#3. Encouraging offensive support

Michael Pezzetta scored twice while William Trudeau added two assists from the blue line. These performances are certainly encouraging considering that the bulk of the scoring did not come from the Habs’ main guns Cole Caufield and Juraf Slafkovsky.

While captain Nick Suzuki got on the scoresheet, Montreal will undoubtedly be happy to see non-roster players stepping up as they continue looking to earn a place on the team. It remains to be seen where Trudeau or Pezzetta can push their way into the lineup.

The Habs went 0-for-8 on the powerplay, which is a number that needs to improve if they wish to contend for a playoff spot this season.

#2. The defense was solid again

For the second game in a row, the Canadiens kept their opponents goalless and under 30 shots. Moreover, the Habs limited the number of dangerous scoring chances from close range.

The Canadiens have been playing a tough, physical style along the boards and in front of the net. That approach has allowed netminders to stay on top of plays, making key saves whenever needed.

The Habs’ penalty kill was 6-for-6 on the night. Of course, it’s never a good idea to take six penalties in a game, but the penalty kill got the job done when it needed to.

#1. Sam Montembeault looks set as the starter

Montembeault made 11 saves on the night in over 30 minutes of ice time. As it stands, he looks set to be the starter for opening night.

With Cayden Primeau’s solid performance against the Philadelphia Flyers, Habs coach Martin St. Louis could consider rolling with a tandem instead. Nevertheless, Montembeault looks like he’s ready to carry the load as a full-time NHL starting goalie.

That situation is another positive sign that the Habs seem poised to emerge from their rebuild and potentially enter the playoff conversation in the Eastern Conference.

How do you think the Montreal Canadiens will fare next season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.