Recap
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Montreal Canadiens' Powerplay Sparks Against Buffalo Sabres

The Montreal Canadiens faced off against the Buffalo Sabres in a tightly contested match at KeyBank Center. The game concluded with the Sabres securing a 5-3 victory over the Habs. This result brought the Canadiens' record to 26-15-7, while the Sabres improved to 26-16-4.


Jan 15, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Montréal Canadiens goaltender Jacob Fowler (32) looks to make a save during the second period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

First Period


The opening period saw both teams come out strong, with each side netting two goals. For Montreal, Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki were instrumental in keeping pace with Buffalo's offensive efforts. Caufield's precision was evident as he capitalized on a powerplay opportunity, showcasing his sharp shooting skills.


Second Period


In the second period, Montreal managed to add another goal to their tally through Ivan Demidov during another powerplay situation. However, Buffalo matched this effort with one of their own, maintaining their lead heading into the final period.


Jan 15, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Buffalo Sabres right wing Josh Doan (91) celebrates his goal with teammates during the first period against the Montréal Canadiens at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

Third Period


The third period proved challenging for Montreal as they failed to find the back of the net despite several attempts. The Sabres took advantage of this lapse and scored twice more, sealing their win over the Habs.


Throughout this encounter, Lane Hutson stood out for Montreal by assisting twice and demonstrating solid defensive play alongside Mike Matheson who logged significant ice time. Despite these efforts and winning 59 percent of faceoffs overall, it was not enough to overcome Buffalo's offense led by Tage Thompson who emerged as a key player for his team.


Jan 15, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Montréal Canadiens right wing Brendan Gallagher (11) falls and looks for the puck during the third period against the Montréal Canadiens at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

As fans reflect on post-game thoughts about Montreal Canadiens' performance against Buffalo Sabres final thoughts will likely focus on missed opportunities during even-strength play where only one goal was scored compared to two successful powerplays executed earlier in-game action which highlighted potential areas needing improvement moving forward into future matches such as upcoming clash scheduled January 17th when visiting Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre starting promptly at 7:00 PM EST available live via ESPN+ broadcast network coverage ensuring supporters can tune-in witness how adjustments made impact outcomes next time around!


For those interested in further insights from players themselves following recent contest don't miss checking out latest updates including exclusive interviews featuring candid remarks shared directly after conclusion providing deeper understanding dynamics involved within context surrounding recent events unfolding rinkside! Share your thoughts about this article!

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