There are nights at the Bell Centre when the electric energy of hockey collides with something deeper, creating moments that linger long after the final buzzer. Last night was one of those rare occasions—a game where the storylines seemed to multiply with every shift, every goal, every glance toward the bench. While the scoreboard flashed a convincing 6-2 win for the Montreal Canadiens over the Utah Mammoth, the real drama unfolded in the subtleties, in the unspoken exchanges, in the places where emotion and competition intertwine.

From the outset, the atmosphere was charged but uneasy. An early goal from the visitors sent a ripple of tension through the crowd, a reminder that no lead is safe and no victory guaranteed. Yet as the minutes ticked by, the Canadiens began to settle, their confidence growing with each save from Samuel Montembeault, each slick pass, each calculated rush up the ice. Montembeault, calm and collected, turned away 25 shots, anchoring his team and quietly shifting the momentum back in their favor.

The stars came out in force. Cole Caufield, with his trademark flair, netted two goals, further cementing his place atop the league’s scoring charts. Oliver Kapanen, the standout rookie, added another tally—his sixth of the season, a number that has fans and analysts alike buzzing about his future. Ivan Demidov’s hockey IQ was on full display as he picked up yet another point, while Alex Newhook delivered a performance that combined grit and skill, contributing both a goal and an assist to the night’s cause. Nick Suzuki, ever the steady presence, notched his 20th point, reinforcing his status as the team’s top producer.

But as impressive as the stats were, it was a fleeting moment on the bench that truly captured the essence of the night. Kirby Dach, who has been quietly finding his stride, scored his fourth goal in three games—a streak that speaks volumes about his renewed energy and confidence. As he returned to the bench, the cameras caught a scene that would soon dominate conversations across the city: head coach Martin St-Louis greeting Dach with a hearty pat on the back and a smile that radiated genuine pride. It was a gesture that transcended the usual coach-player dynamic, hinting at the kind of connection that can change the trajectory of a season.

Just days earlier, St-Louis had spoken publicly about what he expects from Dach—the drive, the puck protection, the playmaking. Watching Dach respond so emphatically, with visible passion and determination, was a testament to both the player’s growth and the coach’s influence.

With the win, the Canadiens improved their record to 10-3-2, solidifying their place among the league’s elite. Yet for those who witnessed the game, the numbers only told part of the story. Something special is happening in Montreal, and the signs are everywhere—from the chemistry on the ice to the camaraderie on the bench.

What exactly passed between Dach and St-Louis in that brief, captured exchange? What does it mean for the team’s future? The answers may surprise you, and the full story is worth exploring in detail. Last night, victory was more than just a number—it was a feeling, a promise, and perhaps, the beginning of something unforgettable.

Photo of Kirby Dach and Martin St-Louis

Photo credit: Screenshot

In a win where Cole Caufield, Oliver Kapanen and Alex Newhook all had a big game, a moment between Kirby Dach and Martin St-Louis stole the spotlight.

The Canadiens earned a 6-2 victory over the Utah Mammoth at the Bell Centre, on Hockey Fights Cancer night.

The game started poorly with a quick goal from the opponent, and you could feel a bit of uneasiness at the Bell Centre.

Samuel Montembeault, however, stayed calm. He made 25 saves and really kept the team in the game.

On his end, Cole Caufield struck again with two goals, which now puts him at the top of the NHL.

Oliver Kapanen added his sixth, best among rookies. Ivan Demidov picked up another point, still showing the same high-level hockey sense.

And in my opinion, Alex Newhook also had a strong night, with a goal and an assist.

Kirby Dach, Martin St-Louis and confidence rediscovered

But it’s the sequence at the end of the game that everyone is talking about this morning.

Kirby Dach scored his fourth goal in his last three games.

On the bench, Martin St-Louis greeted his forward with a big pat on the back and a genuine smile, a scene captured by Sportsnet’s cameras.

It’s so fun to see that!

A few days ago, Martin St-Louis had already talked about what he wants to see from Dach.

“When Dach is at his best, he drives the net, protects the puck and distributes the play.” – MSL

And it looks like the message is getting through, based on what we’re seeing.

Dach has been playing with energy and confidence lately.

Nick Suzuki also scored, giving him 20 points now, the highest total on the Canadiens.

With this win, the Habs are now 10-3-2, still among the best teams in the NHL.

Honestly, I think this was one of the Habs’ best games of the season, and against a strong team at that!