Newhook scores late as Canadiens eliminate Lightning in Game 7

May 4, 2026 - 03:54

Alex Newhook broke a deadlock with 8:53 remaining in the third period, and the Montreal Canadiens held on for a 2-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 7 on Sunday night, closing out a thrilling first-round playoff series.

The win sends Montreal to the second round for the first time since their run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2021, where they ultimately lost to these same Lightning. The Canadiens will now face the Buffalo Sabres, with Game 1 scheduled for Wednesday night in Buffalo.

The game was a tense, defensive battle from the opening faceoff. Tampa Bay struck first midway through the second period, but Montreal answered before the intermission to send the game to the third period tied at one. Both goaltenders stood tall under heavy pressure until Newhook found the back of the net, sending the Bell Centre crowd into a frenzy. The Canadiens then clamped down defensively in the final minutes, blocking shots and clearing pucks to secure the series win.