In a thrilling matchup, the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-2, taking a 3-2 lead in their first-round playoff series. Alexandre Texier scored the game-winning goal early in the third period, while rookie Jakub Dobes made 38 saves. Brendan Gallagher and Kirby Dach also contributed goals for Montreal, which is one win away from advancing for the first time since the 2021 Stanley Cup Finals. The Lightning, facing elimination, have struggled at home, losing 10 of their last 12 postseason games despite consistent sellout crowds.
