MONTREAL — As the Montreal Canadiens edged closer to securing a crucial victory in Game 3 of their series against the Washington Capitals, holding a two-goal lead late in the game, Élise Béliveau appeared on the scoreboard.
Upon seeing her image, fans in attendance raised the noise level to deafening heights.
Then, as the cameras panned away from Élise and focused on her late husband Jean’s retired jersey hanging in the rafters, the crowd began a resonant chant: Béliveau! Béliveau! Béliveau!.
Yet, the Canadiens didn`t solely rely on invoking the spirits of the Forum era to rattle the Capitals at the Bell Centre. Josh Anderson had already taken charge of that task with his commanding presence.
Anderson delivered six thunderous hits throughout the game and decisively altered the series` momentum with a dramatic fight against Tom Wilson at the close of the second period, a skirmish that spilled directly into the Washington bench.
Anderson`s leadership galvanized the Canadiens, propelling them to a convincing 6-3 win. This victory was a just reward for their assertive play, highlighted by an 81-45 advantage in shot attempts and a significant 46-26 edge in hits. Their performance caught the Capitals, who had established a solid 2-0 series lead back in D.C., off guard. Key contributions to the 6-3 final score came from Cole Caufield and Alex Newhook, each recording a goal and an assist. Goaltender Jakob Dobes also played a vital role, stopping seven out of eight shots after entering the game in relief of Sam Montembeault. The Canadiens now trail the best-of-seven series 2-1.
Tristan Blackwood