Canadiens' Late-Game Process in Loss to Devils Provides Valuable Lesson
In a matchup filled with unpredictable bounces, the Montreal Canadiens ultimately lost a critical point in the standings after a late equalizer by the New Jersey Devils. The game ended with a 4-3 overtime win for the Devils on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
Both teams now sit at 20 points through 14 games, but New Jersey holds the edge with eight regulation wins compared to Montreal’s four, securing the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Had the Canadiens maintained their late lead, they could have tightened that gap significantly.
Montreal once again let a third-period advantage slip away — this time, the tying goal came with just 1:07 left. However, the situation differed from previous collapses. The Devils equalized after a fortunate bounce and a six-on-five power push that turned into a six-on-four once Mike Matheson was slowed down while blocking a shot.
Before that moment, the Canadiens controlled the game confidently, especially after Oliver Kapanen put them ahead midway through the third period. Their composure under pressure offered promising signs for future close matches.
“I think that was the best we’ve comported ourselves under those circumstances,” Matheson said afterward at Prudential Center. “We frustrated them a bit in the neutral zone.”
Author’s Summary
The Canadiens displayed real progress in game management despite a late setback against the Devils, showing they may soon learn how to secure crucial regulation wins.