Recap
3 min read

Montreal Canadiens' Powerplay Fizzles as Buffalo Sabres Shine at Bell Centre

The Montreal Canadiens faced off against the Buffalo Sabres at the Bell Centre, resulting in a 4-2 victory for the visitors. This outcome brought the Canadiens' record to 28-16-7 and left them with 63 points, while the Sabres improved to 28-17-5 with their win.


Jan 22, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN;  Montreal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle (21) plays the puck against Buffalo Sabres defenseman Owen Power (25) during the third period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

First Period


The opening period saw an energetic start from both teams. The Sabres took an early lead by scoring two goals, showcasing their offensive prowess. Despite having more shots on goal, the Habs were unable to capitalize on their opportunities and ended the period scoreless.


Second Period


In the second period, Montreal found some momentum. Nick Suzuki led a spirited comeback attempt by contributing one goal and one assist during this frame. Cole Caufield also added a goal for Montreal, bringing them back into contention with two goals in total for this period. However, Buffalo managed to add another point to maintain their lead.


Jan 22, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN;  Montreal Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson (8) plays the puck during the second period against the Buffalo Sabres at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Third Period


As both teams entered the final stretch of play, it was clear that special teams would be crucial. Unfortunately for Montreal fans, their powerplay unit struggled throughout this matchup despite three opportunities presented during gameplay; they failed each time without scoring any points or gaining significant advantage over opponents’ defense strategies employed effectively against them all night long! Meanwhile across ice rink surface area occupied primarily by blue-and-gold jerseys worn proudly representing city known affectionately among locals simply as "Buffalo," another successful short-handed effort sealed deal ensuring ultimate triumph achieved collectively through teamwork displayed consistently throughout entire contest duration lasting full sixty minutes plus stoppage times included therein too!


Looking ahead: The next game scheduled features our beloved Habs traveling southward towards Boston where they'll face off against formidable foes residing within TD Garden arena walls come January twenty-fourth starting promptly seven o'clock Eastern Standard Time sharp! Fans can catch live action broadcasted via NHL Network or NESN channels available nationwide across various cable providers offering comprehensive coverage options tailored specifically designed meet needs discerning viewers everywhere eager witness firsthand what promises undoubtedly exciting showdown between two storied franchises steeped rich history tradition spanning decades past present future alike!


Jan 22, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Cole Caufield (13) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Buffalo Sabres during the second period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

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