The Montreal Canadiens announced a 6-2 victory over the Washington Capitals, with Cole Caufield scoring twice in the first period to lead the offensive charge.
Mike Matheson and Kirby Dach found the net in the second period for Montreal. The Canadiens have now recorded at least one point in seven consecutive games with a 5-0-2 record during that stretch.
Nick Suzuki and Jake Evans added empty-net goals in the third period.
Suzuki finished with two assists. Jakub Dobes made 27 saves and improved his record to 9-0-2 over his last 11 games.
Caufield’s two goals brought his season total to 35, leading the team. The Canadiens scored just 30 seconds into the game for their fastest opening goal this season.
Jakob Chychrun’s point shot hit Caufield, creating a breakaway opportunity. Caufield’s snap shot beat Charlie Lindgren to the glove side.
Alex Ovechkin scored twice for Washington, but the Capitals saw their three-game winning streak end. The Capitals captain has now scored 44 goals and recorded 76 points in 63 career games against Montreal.
Lindgren stopped 19 shots in his first start since January 29.
Washington failed to convert on four power-play opportunities.
The Bell Centre continues to be a difficult venue for visiting teams. Montreal improved to 10-3-1 in its last 14 home games.
What’s Next
The Capitals return home to host Utah on Tuesday night.
Montreal travels to face the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday night.
