Jean-Gabriel Pageau scored 3:14 into overtime, leading the New York Islanders to a 4-3 comeback win against the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday at Bell Centre. The Islanders overcame a challenging game to claim the victory after the NHL’s break for the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic Winter Games.
Schaefer Breaks Rookie Records with Two Quick Goals
New York rookie Matthew Schaefer made a significant impact by scoring twice within 55 seconds late in the second period, bringing his total to 18 goals this season. Schaefer, originally from Hamilton and picked first overall in last year’s draft, surpassed Islanders legend Denis Potvin for the most goals scored by a rookie defenceman in franchise history. Additionally, he broke Phil Housley’s record for the most goals scored by an 18-year-old defenceman.
Islanders’ Captain and Goalie Contribute Crucially
Captaining the Islanders in his 900th game, Anders Lee added a goal that helped push the team’s winning streak to three games. Russian netminder Ilya Sorokin stopped 21 shots, improving his personal record against Montreal to seven wins and two ties, proving to be a reliable last line of defense.
Canadiens’ Dobson Shines Against Former Team
Noah Dobson scored twice for Montreal, marking his first game against the Islanders since his trade last June. He netted goals at even strength and on the power play, while Cole Caufield scored his team-high 33rd goal during the third period. Canadiens goalie Samuel Montembeault made 23 saves in the close contest. Dobson’s performance extended his point streak to a career-high six games and brought him just one goal shy of his personal best season total of 13.
Game Highlights and Turning Points
Montreal took an early lead when Dobson capitalized on a poor line change by New York, receiving a stretch pass from Lane Hutson and firing a wrist shot to beat Sorokin. The Islanders managed to snap an 0-for-10 power-play drought during the game, a crucial factor given their low ranking in power-play efficiency across the Eastern Conference and the league overall. Conversely, Montreal has now allowed a power-play goal in four consecutive matches.
Looking Forward: Next Games Scheduled
The Islanders will travel to face the Columbus Blue Jackets this Saturday, while the Canadiens prepare to host the Washington Capitals on the same day. Both teams aim to build on their performances following the recent Olympic break in pursuit of improved standings in the NHL.
