Canadiens outlast Lightning 2-1 in Game 7 to win thrilling 1st-round series

The Montreal Canadiens triumphed over the Tampa Bay Lightning in a thrilling Game 7, winning 2-1 despite having only nine shots on goal. Alex Newhook scored the decisive goal with less than nine minutes remaining, securing Montreal’s first series victory since 2021. Rookie goalie Jakub Dobes made 28 saves, and Nick Suzuki scored his first goal of the series. The Canadiens are the first team to win a playoff game with fewer than 10 shots since 1959-60. The series was intensely competitive, with each game decided by one goal and four going to overtime. The Canadiens will face the Buffalo Sabres in the second round. Tampa Bay, eliminated in the first round for the fourth consecutive season, struggled despite strong defense, failing to capitalize on late-game opportunities. QUESTION: How might the Canadiens’ unexpected victory with minimal shots on goal influence their strategy in future games?