Caufield scores 33rd, Canadiens beat Panthers to stay one point outside playoffs in 2025.

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Caufield scores 33rd, Canadiens beat Panthers to stay one point outside playoffs in 2025.

On Saturday night, March 15, 2025, the Montreal Canadiens secured a crucial 3-1 victory over the Florida Panthers at the Bell Centre in Montreal. This win was pivotal in keeping the Canadiens’ playoff aspirations alive, as they remained just one point outside the Eastern Conference wild-card spots.

First Period: Canadiens Establish Early Dominance Caufield scores 33rd.

The game commenced with both teams vying for control, but it was the Canadiens who struck first. At 5:15 into the opening period, Montreal capitalized on a power-play opportunity. Patrik Laine, stationed at the left circle, received a pass and unleashed a wrist shot over Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky’s left shoulder. This goal marked Laine’s 16th of the season and his 13th power-play goal, underscoring his proficiency with the man advantage. citeturn0search2

The Canadiens thought they had doubled their lead later in the first when Alex Newhook found the back of the net. However, after a video review, the goal was disallowed due to goaltender interference, keeping the score at 1-0. citeturn0search2

Undeterred, Montreal continued to press. At 15:56, Cole Caufield, the team’s leading scorer, netted his 33rd goal of the season. The play began with Juraj Slafkovský intercepting a Panthers’ clearing attempt and sending the puck to Caufield, who was positioned in front of the net. Caufield expertly redirected the pass past Bobrovsky, giving Montreal a 2-0 advantage. citeturn0search2

Second Period: Panthers Narrow the Gap Caufield scores 33rd.

The Panthers emerged from the intermission with renewed intensity. At 3:51 of the second period, Mackie Samoskevich, in his inaugural NHL season, showcased his talent by scoring for Florida. He retrieved the puck behind the Canadiens’ net, skated into the slot, and fired a shot over the pad of goaltender Sam Montembeault. The Canadiens argued that Panthers forward Sam Bennett had interfered with Montembeault on the play, but the goal stood, reducing Montreal’s lead to 2-1. citeturn0search2

Despite Florida’s efforts, the Canadiens’ defense remained resolute, limiting the Panthers’ scoring opportunities and maintaining their narrow lead.

Third Period: Dvorak Seals the Win Caufield scores 33rd.

The final frame saw both teams battling for control, but it was Montreal that struck the decisive blow. At 8:11, Christian Dvorak scored his 100th career goal, redirecting a point shot from defenseman David Savard past Bobrovsky. This goal restored Montreal’s two-goal cushion, making it 3-1. citeturn0search2

Dvorak’s milestone was a testament to his consistency and importance to the Canadiens over the years.

Goaltending and Defensive Highlights Caufield scores 33rd.

Sam Montembeault’s performance between the pipes was instrumental in Montreal’s victory. He made 21 saves, including a critical glove stop on Carter Verhaeghe during a late 6-on-4 situation, preserving his team’s lead. citeturn0search2

The Canadiens’ defense, led by veterans like Savard, effectively neutralized the Panthers’ offensive threats. Florida’s lineup was missing key players, including Matthew Tkachuk (groin injury), Aaron Ekblad (suspension), and recent acquisition Brad Marchand (upper-body injury), which impacted their offensive cohesion. citeturn0news11

Playoff Implications Caufield scores 33rd.

This victory was more than just a win; it was a statement of intent. The Canadiens, with 71 points, remained in close pursuit of a playoff spot, demonstrating resilience and determination in their quest for postseason play. citeturn0search2

Looking Ahead Caufield scores 33rd.

The Canadiens’ schedule remains demanding as they continue their push for a playoff berth. Their next game is scheduled against the Ottawa Senators, followed by a matchup with the New York Islanders. Each game is crucial, and the Canadiens will need to maintain their high level of play to secure a coveted playoff spot.

For a visual recap of the game’s key moments, you can watch the highlights below:

videoNHL Highlights | Panthers vs. Canadiens – March 15, 2025turn0search5

navlistCanadiens Triumph Over Panthers with Dvorak’s Milestoneturn0news11

Caufield scores 33rd