Habs Tighten Defense Against the Kings
Price Makes a Big Save
A defensive core that has raised questions in past weeks appeared tighter on Thursday night as the Habs downed the Los Angeles Kings 4-1. Carey Price was once again brilliant, making 23 saves for his 9th win of the year, meaning that he is still undefeated this year. The Canadiens opened up a 2-0 lead in the first period with goals by Paul Byron and Daniel Carr. Carr’s goal was his first of the season and the 7th of his career.
A second period goal by Phillip Danault gave Montreal a 3-0 lead after 40 minutes. The 3rd period saw Price’s shutout bid end with a powerplay goal by the Kings’ Tyler Toffoli at the 12 minute mark. Alex Galchenyuk added an empty net goal to seal the win for the Canadiens. The win moves the Habs to 9-0-0 at home this year, a mark not seen since 1953.
Habs’ Deep Lines Paying Dividends
Daniel Carr Celebrates His 1st of the Season
The 3rd and 4th lines of the Canadiens having been paying dividends for the team all season and the game vs the Kings was no different. Montreal coach Michel Therrien elected to make David Desharnais a healthy scratch, a result of 9 straight games without a point. The veteran winger continues to polarize fans with his style of play, with many blaming him for defensive gaffes. Danault served as Desharnais replacement on the 3rd line, while Carr made his 1st start of the year on the 4th. The changes appeared to work, as Danault and Carr both scored.
Habs Prepare for Meeting Against the Red Wings
With the Kings behind them, the Habs now look forward to Saturday night when they play host to Detroit Red Wings. This will be the first meeting of the year between the two Original 6 teams, who are looking to revive the long time rivalry as the two teams who now share a division. The Wings are 8-6-1 this season and sit 3rd in the division. Game time is 7:00PM EST on Saturday.
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