Canadiens take 4-point lead in race for final playoff spot with comeback win

Nick Suzuki has been a driving force for the Montreal Canadiens in all situations, leading his team’s surge into the playoff picture with his offensive production since February. But on Saturday, when the Canadiens needed him to step up on the penalty kill, Suzuki showcased his versatility once again.

Facing the Philadelphia Flyers at a rowdy Bell Centre, the Canadiens found themselves trailing 1-0 in the first period. Suzuki, who filled in on the penalty kill for winger Josh Anderson, rose to the occasion. He helped thwart a four-minute Flyers power play, generating more chances for Montreal than Philadelphia.

And when the Flyers went on the man advantage again in the third period, Suzuki took matters into his own hands. Chasing down a puck in Philadelphia’s corner, he cruised around the net before falling to one knee in the slot. But that didn’t deter him as he picked the bottom right corner and beat Samuel Ersson off the post and in to give Montreal a two-goal lead.

Suzuki’s offensive prowess has been on full display recently, with 31 points in his last 20 games, ranking him second in NHL scoring since the 4 Nations Face-Off break. The 25-year-old centre has pushed his season total to 83 points, becoming Montreal’s first point-per-game player since Alex Kovalev in 2007-08.

But Suzuki’s impact goes beyond just scoring goals. He has become a key player for the Canadiens in all situations, showcasing his leadership and ability to make things happen at both ends of the ice. Head coach Martin St. Louis praised Suzuki’s evolution as a player, noting that it has been impressive to witness his growth this season.

In Saturday’s game against the Flyers, Suzuki’s performance was complemented by a highlight-reel goal from rookie defenceman Lane Hutson. Hutson fooled Ersson with a sharp-angle shot into the top right corner after an end-to-end rush, further solidifying the Canadiens’ lead.

With Suzuki leading the charge, the Canadiens recorded their ninth third-period comeback of the season, the most in the league. Montreal now holds the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, giving themselves a four-point cushion over the New York Rangers with six games remaining.

As the Canadiens continue their push towards the playoffs, Suzuki’s all-around contributions will be crucial in helping Montreal secure a spot in the postseason. His ability to excel in every situation, whether it be scoring goals, killing penalties, or leading his team, makes him a valuable asset for the Canadiens as they look to make a deep playoff run.