Recap
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Montreal Canadiens Dominate Florida Panthers with Texier's Hat Trick Magic

The Montreal Canadiens continued their impressive season with a commanding 6-2 victory over the Florida Panthers at the Bell Centre. This win improved the Habs' record to 25-13-6, while the Cats fell to 22-18-3. The game was marked by standout performances and pivotal moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.


Jan 8, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; NHL linesman Michel Cormier (76) drops the puck at a face-off between Florida Panthers center Evan Rodrigues (17) and Montreal Canadiens center Phillip Danault (24) during the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

First Period


The opening period saw a strong start from both teams, but it was Montreal who struck first. Alexandre Texier opened his account for the night with a well-timed goal that set the tone for what would become an unforgettable performance. The Habs capitalized on their momentum and added another goal before heading into intermission, leaving Florida scoreless in this segment.


Second Period


As play resumed, both teams intensified their efforts. The Panthers managed to find some rhythm and scored once in this period, narrowing Montreal's lead momentarily. However, Oliver Kapanen responded swiftly for the Canadiens with a crucial goal that restored their two-goal advantage. This back-and-forth exchange highlighted key moments of resilience from both sides.


Jan 8, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens left wing Alexandre Texier (85) celebrates with his teammates at the bench his goal against the Florida Panthers during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Third Period


The final period belonged entirely to Montreal as they unleashed an offensive barrage against Florida's defense. Texier completed his hat trick in spectacular fashion, cementing his status as one of the game's stars alongside goaltender Samuel Montembeault who made critical saves throughout all periods ensuring stability at netminder position when needed most by team mates like Nick Suzuki or Cole Caufield contributing assists during these decisive plays which ultimately led them towards securing victory over visiting opponents such as those represented here today within context provided via comprehensive analysis regarding recent match-up between respective franchises involved herein: "Montreal Canadiens vs Florida Panthers recap."


In conclusion: With this dominant display behind them now firmly etched into memory banks everywhere across league-wide circles alike; attention shifts forward onto next scheduled encounter slated take place January 10th against Detroit Red Wings hosted locally inside familiar confines known affectionately among faithful supporters simply referred collectively under moniker "Bell Centre." Fans can catch all action live via ESPN+ or FDSDET broadcasts starting promptly at 7:00 PM EDT sharp! Don't miss out - share your thoughts about latest triumphs achieved thus far along journey embarked upon together alongside beloved hometown heroes representing proud tradition embodied uniquely through spirit embodied within each member comprising storied franchise known universally around globe today simply called 'Canadiens.'


Jan 8, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Florida Panthers center Carter Verhaeghe (23) passes the puck against Montreal Canadiens defenseman Noah Dobson (53) during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
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