The Montreal Canadiens refused to let their season end on Florida ice, grinding out a 2-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena. Facing a 3-2 series deficit, the Canadiens showcased a resilient defensive performance to extend their 2025-26 season NHL Playoffs run. The win ensures that this hard-fought battle will go the distance.
The victory marks a significant turnaround for Montreal after being shut out in Game 5. By securing this road win, the Canadiens have once again proven their ability to thrive with their backs against the wall. The atmosphere in Tampa was electric, but the visitors remained composed throughout the sixty minutes of play.
The decisive moment
Montreal's defensive unit delivered a masterclass in the closing stages of the game to protect their narrow lead. As the Lightning pulled their goaltender for an extra attacker, the Canadiens maintained a disciplined structure that prevented any high-quality scoring chances.
The absence of Victor Hedman continued to impact the Lightning's ability to transition effectively from their own zone. Without their star defenseman, who remains on the injured reserve list for personal reasons, Tampa Bay struggled to sustain pressure during the most critical moments of the third period. Montreal capitalized on this lack of rhythm to dictate the pace of the game's final minutes.
By the numbers
- Final Score: Montreal Canadiens 2, Tampa Bay Lightning 1
- Series Record: Tied at 3-3
- Game Margin: 1 point (Close game)
- Previous Result: Tampa Bay 1, Montreal 0 (Game 5)
- Injured Players: Victor Hedman (IR) and Pontus Holmberg (Upper body)
This was the fifth game of the series decided by a single goal, emphasizing how little separation exists between these two teams. The 2025-26 season NHL Playoffs have seen both squads trade blows in a defensive chess match that has captivated fans.
What it means
This result forces a decisive Game 7, shifting the pressure squarely onto the Tampa Bay Lightning. After failing to close out the series at home, the Lightning must now travel back to Montreal for a winner-take-all showdown. The momentum appears to have swung back to the Canadiens, who have now won two of the three games played in Tampa during this postseason series.
For Montreal, the victory is a testament to their grit and tactical execution under extreme pressure. They managed to overcome the noise of the Tampa crowd and the physical toll of a long series to keep their championship aspirations alive. The 2025-26 season NHL Playoffs continue to deliver high-stakes drama as this series reaches its absolute limit.
What to watch next
All eyes now turn to the Bell Centre for Game 7, where one team will advance to the next round and the other will see their season come to an end. The availability of Pontus Holmberg, who is currently sidelined with an upper-body injury, could be a pivotal factor in the Lightning's attempt to regain their offensive form for the finale.