The Montreal Canadiens proved once again that it's not how you start, but how you finish, storming back from a disastrous first period to take a 3-2 series lead over the Buffalo Sabres in a thrilling Game 5 on Thursday night.
After splitting the first four games, both teams knew the stakes were high. But the Habs looked anything but ready when the puck dropped. Head coach Martin St-Louis had stressed the importance of a strong start in his pregame media availability, saying it's about "playing with the right intentions" and "being dialed in early." Unfortunately, his message didn't quite reach the ice—or the crease.
Goaltender Jakub Dobes had a nightmare opening frame, surrendering three goals on the first four shots he faced. Yet somehow, the Canadiens refused to let the game slip away. They battled back from deficits twice, though Buffalo still held a 3-2 lead after 20 minutes. It was the kind of roller-coaster hockey that makes the playoffs unforgettable.
The second period started with more trouble. Montreal's top line got pinned in their own zone for extended shifts, and when they finally changed, Sabres star Tage Thompson burst free on a breakaway. But this time, Dobes stood tall. He tracked Thompson all the way and made a spectacular pad save that kept the Canadiens within striking distance.
That save was the turning point. Energized by their goaltender's resilience, Montreal finally shook off their sluggish start and unleashed a four-goal barrage that silenced the Buffalo crowd. Josh Anderson tied the game with a big equalizer, and rookie sensation Ivan Demidov nearly put the Habs ahead, sliding the puck through Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. Jake Evans—not exactly known for his scoring touch—provided the gentle tap-in to push it over the line. Sometimes, it's the unlikely heroes who make the difference.
St-Louis can take a bow for keeping his team composed through the chaos. With a chance to close out the series in Game 6, the Canadiens have all the momentum—and a reminder that even the ugliest starts can lead to beautiful wins.