Canadiens Quick Hits: Dobes, Dach, Caufield Help Beat Panthers

In a dominant 4-0 victory over the Florida Panthers on Saturday, the Montreal Canadiens showed solid all-around play, with key contributions from several players. Goaltender Jakub Dobes made an immediate impact in his NHL debut, putting up a shutout with 34 saves. Meanwhile, Kirby Dach led the offense, scoring two goals for the first time in two years. Cole Caufield, who had been struggling under the weight of a seven-game goal drought, scored a key goal in the third period to secure the win. The final 4-0 shutout resulted from a full team effort, with solid defensive play and timely goals.

Cole Caufield Is Finally Back on the Scoresheet

Cole Caufield ended a seven-game goal drought with a timely goal in the third period, giving the Canadiens a 4-0 lead. It was his 18th goal of the season and could be a big bounce-back marker after a rough patch. He remains one of Montreal’s most important offensive players, and his ability to contribute regularly is key to any chance the Canadiens might have of making a run for the post-season.

It’s unusual to see the Canadiens youngster held off the score sheet. He’s a gifted scorer. Oddly, he’s gone several games in a row without putting one in the back of the net. Maybe the goal will light a fire under him.

Habs Goalie Jakub Dobes’ Stellar NHL Debut

Called up from the AHL just the day before, Dobes was impressive in his first NHL appearance. The 23-year-old goaltender stopped all 34 shots he faced, earning his first career shutout. Dobes became the first Montreal goalie to post a shutout in his NHL debut since Yann Danis in 2005.

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Dobes’ calm and composed play in the net was a bright spot for the Canadiens and may help solidify his role as Sam Montembeault‘s backup moving forward. It’s probably too early to pronounce him the next in line, but he certainly looked good in his NHL debut.

Canadiens Kirby Dach Scores Two Goals in One Game

Kirby Dach had a breakout game, scoring twice. His first goal came early in the second period, followed by another goal just minutes later to extend the Canadiens’ lead. Dach’s two-goal game marked his first since December 2022 and boosted his total to four goals in 35 games this season.

Dach’s offensive production will be crucial for the Canadiens as they continue to rely on his scoring ability, mainly as the team works to remain competitive. He’s been a great pick-up for the Canadiens but hasn’t found his groove since coming from the Blackhawks a few seasons ago. There are high hopes that he will figure it out consistently in Montreal.

What’s Next for the Canadiens?

The Canadiens will look to build on this solid performance as they face the Tampa Bay Lightning in their game today. Montreal has plenty of reasons to be optimistic, with Dobes stepping up as a reliable backup and players like Dach and Caufield finding their offensive rhythm. If the team can continue to rely on their goaltending and offensive production, they could be poised for an intense stretch of games ahead.

For Canadiens fans, a second win in Florida would certainly be a cause for celebration.

Related: Jakub Dobes Shines in Canadiens Debut with a Shutout Victory