After a tough four-game stretch, Jakub Dobeš bounced back with a .923 save rate in a big win. He made 24 saves against the Leafs at the Bell Centre. This performance was huge for a rookie goalie in the spotlight.
The Canadiens de Montréal didn’t just win; they boosted their season. Coach Martin St‑Louis chose Jakub Dobeš for the game, and he didn’t disappoint. He played well in the first and third periods, keeping the Leafs to just two goals.
Jakub Dobeš kept his cool in a game where things can change fast. Montreal’s players, the crowd, and Dobeš all played their parts. This win has made many think he should start more games.
About last night: Canadiens 5–2 Maple Leafs at the Bell Centre
Montreal played simple, smart hockey last night. They had a poised rookie goalie. The game was intense at the Bell Centre. The score was clear: Canadiens 5, Maple Leafs 2.
Stat line that sparks the conversation: 24 saves on 26 shots (.923)
Dobeš made 24 saves out of 26, a .923 performance. He faced tough shots but stayed focused. This helped keep Toronto’s hopes of winning low.
How the first period set the tone with calm, positionally sound goaltending
The first period was key. Dobeš stopped 11 shots calmly. A close call later, he saved the post, calming everyone down.
Key moments: late second‑period even‑strength goal and third‑period power‑play tally against
Toronto scored late in the second and again in the third. But Dobeš stopped eight of nine shots in the third. Montreal’s three shots in the third showed they took control.
Confidence rebound after a four‑game winless skid (0‑2‑2, 16 GA on 89 shots)
After a tough four games, Dobeš bounced back. He looked sharp and decisive. The Canadiens’ win showed they were back on track.
Leafs news and reaction: did the Leafs win and what went wrong
The latest leafs news asks one simple question: did the leafs win? Sadly, no. They lost 5–2 in Montreal, adding to their struggles. Fans were hoping for a win, but the Leafs’ defense fell short.
Did the Maple Leafs win: no — Toronto fell 5–2 in Montreal
The answer was clear from the start. Toronto tried to catch up, but the Habs kept the lead. For those checking the leafs win, the scoreboard was the truth, not luck.
William Nylander and Oliver Ekman‑Larsson as the lone goal scorers
William Nylander scored early to stop Montreal’s run. Oliver Ekman‑Larsson followed with a goal from the side. But the Leafs couldn’t keep up, and their chances dwindled.
Joseph Woll pulled after allowing four on 25; “we left our goalie out to dry,” says John Tavares
Joseph Woll faced a lot of shots and was pulled after four goals on 25. John Tavares said they left their goalie exposed. This highlights the need for better goalie support.
Power‑play woes (14.5 percent) and defensive breakdowns fuelling the skid
The power play was at 14.5 percent, and it didn’t show in Montreal. The Leafs’ defense had gaps, leading to chances against. Until they fix these issues, the goalies will bear the brunt.
Toronto goes to Columbus next with many questions. The question of did the leafs win is always on everyone’s mind. The answer depends on better defense and a stronger power play.
How a rivalry night supercharged the Bell Centre atmosphere
The Bell Centre buzzed from the start, with fans in red and blue jerseys creating a lively atmosphere. The crowd was divided, with Toronto fans loudly countering Montreal chants. This energy was reminiscent of hockey night in Canada en direct, where every moment was filled with noise.
Montreal set the tone with early hits by Arber and Florian Xhekaj, and a strong penalty kill. Even modest shots were cheered, and each save by Jakub Dobeš was celebrated. The question of who won hockey last night was on everyone’s mind as the game ebbed and flowed.
Florian Xhekaj’s first NHL point excited the crowd, and a response to a shove on Brendan Gallagher sent the arena into a frenzy. The team rallied around the goalie, and the fans supported them play after play.
By the third period, every save felt like a victory, and every dump-in led to a chase. The atmosphere was electric, with chants echoing throughout the arena. Fans were exchanging barbs and taking selfies, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
| Moment | Bell Centre Reaction | On‑Ice Impact | Rivalry Pulse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early penalty kill | Rising chant after each clear | Settled Montreal’s structure | Set edge for rivalry night |
| Florian Xhekaj’s first NHL point | Instant standing ovation | Bench energy jumped | Home crowd seized momentum |
| Response to Gallagher shove | Unified roar, towels waving | Physical reset at the net | Intensity matched hockey night in Canada en direct |
| Late Dobeš saves | Chants after the whistle | Calmed shifts, clean breakouts | Echoed the stakes of who won hockey last night |
| Bench‑to‑bench chirps | Duelling sections trade songs | Kept tempo high without overplaying | Shared vibe of an inside train night pic moment |
Inside the crease: what Dobeš did differently against the Leafs
Jakub Dobeš started strong and didn’t overplay his hand. In a game filled with noise and lights, he stayed calm. His strategy was all about angles, patience, and keeping his hands clean.
The .923 night showed he’s back in form, bringing a fresh mindset and technique.
Early saves that settled Montreal and managed momentum
He made 11 saves in the first period, outsmarting the Leafs. A standout moment was when he blocked a near wrap-around shot. This early success slowed Toronto and gave Montreal a chance to build.
His calmness spread to the rest of the team. Jakub Dobeš made tough saves look easy, helping Montreal’s defense and keeping shifts short.
Tracking through traffic, wrap‑around recovery, and rebound control
In the second period, screens didn’t stop him. He moved through the crowd and made saves. The only goal against him was a long shot from Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
He controlled rebounds well. Most shots stayed in his crease, and the rest went to safe areas. This helped the defense and prevented second chances.
Game management in the third when the Habs took only three shots
In the third, he focused on managing the game. He absorbed pucks and controlled the pace. Eight of nine saves were clean, with the goal coming on a power play.
Inside the crease, Jakub Dobeš kept things simple. He made few rebounds, reset quickly, and used the clock to his advantage.
| Phase | Key Adjustment | Result | Why It Mattered |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Period | Edge discipline and quick post seals on lateral threats | 11/11 saves, momentum swing to Montreal | Settled shifts and reduced Leafs’ rush confidence |
| Second Period | Tracking through layers, compact chest saves | Allowed only to Oliver Ekman‑Larsson late | Limited tips and kept traffic from generating chaos |
| Third Period | Puck absorption and deliberate tempo control | 8/9 saves, no costly rebounds at even strength | Protected a low‑shot frame and closed lanes under pressure |
| Overall | Angles, patience, clean hands | .923 save percentage | Reinforced confidence and rewarded Martin St‑Louis’ start |
Montreal Canadiens supporting cast steps up around their rookie goalie
About last night, the Canadiens de Montréal players showed great speed and teamwork. They supported Jakub Dobeš well, helping him feel more confident. The team’s fast play and smart support are key for Montreal canadians goalies.
Josh Anderson’s top‑corner finish over Woll’s shoulder
Josh Anderson scored twice, and his first goal was impressive. He shot the puck into the top corner over Joseph Woll’s shoulder while moving fast. This goal excited the crowd and helped ease the pressure on the rookie goalie.
Both Xhekaj brothers bring physicality; Florian earns first NHL point and answers the bell
Arber and Florian Xhekaj set a tough tone with their hits. Florian got his first NHL point on Anderson’s goal. He also stood up to Dakota Mermis, showing the team’s toughness.
Martin St‑Louis’ praise for Laval development and readiness of call‑ups
Martin St‑Louis credits Laval’s work for the team’s success. He says the recent call-ups fit right in, adding to the team’s speed. This support helps the goalies and improves the team’s play.
| Skater Impact | Notable Moment | How It Helped the Rookie Goalie |
|---|---|---|
| Josh Anderson | Top‑corner snipe over Joseph Woll and a second tally off the rush | Early offence flipped momentum and reduced defensive zone time |
| Florian Xhekaj | First NHL point and a spirited tilt with Dakota Mermis | Physical spark settled shifts and galvanized line matching |
| Arber Xhekaj | Consistent hits that stalled Toronto cycles | Cleared the crease and simplified reads for Dobeš |
| Lane Hutson | Jump‑in goal from the weak side | Pressure relief via quick transition and controlled exits |
| Juraj Slafkovský | Clean entries and a strong net‑front screen | Slowed rushes against and boosted shot quality at the other end |
About last night, the Canadiens showed great depth and teamwork. This approach helps the goalies stay calm and allows the team to play aggressively.
Slaf’s strong night: what Juraj Slafkovský showed on Hockey Night in Canada en direct
About last night, Juraj Slafkovský stepped up big time. On hockey night in Canada en direct, he played with a lot of heart. Fans were talking about cole caufield brother, but Slaf was the real star.
After a tough game in Washington, Slafkovský found his groove again. He moved quickly and made smart plays. His skills in keeping the puck alive were impressive.
Driving transition, confidence on the puck, and a smart net‑front screen
Slafkovský was quick to move the puck and then sprinted back. He played tough along the wall and made smart cuts inside. His screen in front of the net helped a shot get through.
His stats were impressive: two shots, two blocks, and a hit. He played simple but effective hockey.
Working with Ivan Demidov and Oliver Kapanen on the second line
With Ivan Demidov and Oliver Kapanen, Slafkovský played well together. Demidov took the power-play look, but Slaf shined at even strength. He set up a goal with a nice tic-tac-toe.
The trio worked well together, stretching Toronto’s defense. They moved the puck quickly and kept the pressure on. Their play was balanced and fast.
Coach’s challenge: turning a high ceiling into consistency
Martin St‑Louis was pleased with the effort, but consistency is key. The goal is to keep playing like this every game. Whether it’s on TV or not, Slaf needs to stay consistent.
With the team healthy, small details matter. Keep driving to the net, win battles on the boards, and stay ahead of defenders. This will help Slaf become a reliable player, even with all the talk about cole caufield brother.
| Five‑on‑Five Impact | Key Detail | Line Fit | Resulting Play |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transition bursts | Early outlets, inside cuts | Demidov carries, Slaf supports | Clean entries, extended O‑zone time |
| Puck protection | Shoulder checks, hip‑to‑puck | Kapanen low support | Won cycles, drawn coverage |
| Net‑front presence | Screen and stick positioning | Point activation | Deflected lanes, goalie vision blocked |
| Quick give‑and‑go | Tic‑tac‑toe execution | Demidov touch pass | Primary chance, second‑look assist |
Where this leaves the Leafs: standings pressure and goalie questions
The Leafs are 9–10–3 and seventh in the Atlantic. They face early pressure on every shift. Their power play at 14.5 percent is a big challenge.
Defensive gaps are a problem, turning simple clears into rush chances against. Joseph Woll’s early exit after four periods highlights goalie concerns. John Tavares believes in the team’s structure and execution.
Injuries have changed matchups and special-teams roles. This puts extra stress on depth skaters. The team’s performance is now judged by period.
The Leafs discuss health updates and internal fixes. Fans keep asking for a new goalie. For now, the team focuses on clean exits and quick backpressure.
One tight win can change momentum quickly. The Leafs aim for small improvements. They want shorter shifts, better weak-side support, and more slot saves.
Fantasy and depth‑chart implications for Canadiens de Montréal
Jakub Dobeš had a great game, making .923 saves. This has started a conversation in fantasy leagues. He is seen as a key player in the Montreal canadians goalies mix, gaining trust with each game.
Managers should consider his short-term benefits. But, they also need to watch for schedule changes out west.
Dobeš as backup to Montembeault for now; what would change that
Right now, Dobeš is the backup to Samuel Montembeault. A string of good games, a tough travel week, or Montembeault’s form dropping could change things. Jakub Dobeš might get more starts if he performs well on back-to-backs or if Martin St-Louis decides to rest players.
Short‑term streaming value after a statement win
After a tough start, Dobeš’s recent win has boosted his confidence. Streamers might look to start him against weaker opponents on the western trip. In deeper leagues, the situation with Montreal canadians goalies is ripe for proactive moves, like adding Dobeš, if he’s hinted to start.
Monitoring injuries and call‑ups that could affect starts
The Canadiens have been flexible with their Laval roster under St-Louis. This flexibility is key. Injuries or recalls can shift the team’s strategy, including who plays in the crease. Keep an eye on travel fatigue, maintenance days, and recalls. These can signal when Dobeš might get a start.
| Scenario | Impact on Starts | Fantasy Angle | Key Indicator to Watch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Back‑to‑back on road trip | Increases odds of Jakub Dobeš getting one game | Short‑term stream with save volume | Morning‑skate starter confirmations |
| Montembeault heavy workload | Rotational relief likely | Ratios stabilizer for a single start | Coach comments on rest and usage |
| Injury or Laval recall shift | Depth reshuffle alters game scripts | Adjust expectations for the Montreal canadians goalies | Transaction wire and practice lines |
| Favourable opponent metrics | Spot start aligned with matchup | High‑floor stream for canadiens de montréal fans | Opposition xG trends and travel fatigue |
Storylines fans searched: who won hockey last night, did Toronto win the hockey game
Fans were eager to know who won hockey last night and if Toronto took the game. The Montreal Canadiens beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 5–2. This win made the rivalry night even more intense.
Clarifying the scoreline for casual and search‑driven readers
For those who searched if the Leafs won, the score was Canadiens 5, Maple Leafs 2. William Nylander and Oliver Ekman‑Larsson scored for Toronto. Joseph Woll was pulled after allowing four goals on 25 shots, showing a tough stretch.
Leafs new goalie chatter vs. current maple.leafs goalies reality
Talk of a new goalie for the Leafs started as results declined. Yet, the current goalies are handling the workload. Coaches are focusing on team defence and improving special teams.
They aim to improve structure, breakouts, and net-front coverage. This will help whoever starts next.
Montreal canadians goalies depth and what’s next on the road trip
Montreal’s goalies, Samuel Montembeault and Jakub Dobeš, are ready for the challenge. Montembeault started with a .923 save percentage. The team is preparing for a western swing, balancing rest and matchups.
What’s next: schedule context and momentum swings
Last night was full of surprises for both teams. Now, everyone is looking at travel, rest, and upcoming games. These games could change everything.
Canadiens head west after a day off in Brossard
Montreal gets a day off, then practices in Brossard on Monday at 10:30. They then head to Utah, Vegas, and Colorado for three games. Goalie Jakub Dobeš might get another chance to play.
Cole Caufield’s skills are key for Montreal. The team will watch how others support him. This is important, considering the Maple Leafs’ win last night.
Leafs eye a reset versus the Blue Jackets amid injuries
Toronto looks to start fresh against Columbus on Wednesday. Injuries have changed their lineup and special teams. They need to find their rhythm again.
Leafs news will focus on practice, recalls, and blue line minutes. They also want to see more scoring from players not in the top six. This will set the stage for their next games.
Key names and narratives to watch: Cole Caufield, Oliver Ekman‑Larsson, and more
Cole Caufield’s speed and touch are vital for Montreal. Slafkovský’s work on the boards adds depth. For Toronto, oliver ekman‑larsson’s skills in transition and on the power play are key.
Look out for faceoffs, defensive plays, and goalie changes. These will show where the momentum might go next.
| Team | Immediate Focus | Next Opponent(s) | Watch Items | Implication |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal Canadiens | Recovery day, Brossard skate, fly west | Utah Mammoth, Vegas Golden Knights, Colorado Avalanche | Dobeš deployment, Cole Caufield pace, support from Anderson, Xhekaj brothers, Hutson, Slafkovský | Testing depth on a back‑to‑back and reinforcing defensive structure |
| Toronto Maple Leafs | Practice reshuffle amid injuries | Columbus Blue Jackets | oliver ekman‑larsson touches, secondary scoring, special‑teams rhythm | Stemming the slide and rebuilding confidence |
Conclusion
In a charged Bell Centre night, Jakub Dobeš made a strong case for more starts. He had a .923 save rate and looked calm under pressure. The Canadiens closed out a 5–2 win, a result that will be remembered.
Montreal’s push came from all corners. Josh Anderson showed great touch and pace. The Xhekaj brothers set a tough tone. Juraj Slafkovský played well in traffic.
With Dobeš backing them, the team handled pressure well. They made key moments count.
For Toronto, the question was simple: did the Leafs win? The answer was yes, but with some issues. Defensive gaps and a 14.5 percent power play were problems. Joseph Woll’s early pull hurt their chances.
John Tavares tried to keep the team going, but they need to work on structure and health. Montreal is heading west with confidence, thanks to Dobeš’s performance. The Leafs will look to improve in Columbus.
As rematches approach, Montreal and Dobeš aim to build on their success. The Canadiens and Leafs will face each other again, looking to extend their winning streak.