Let’s try this again.
A week ago, the Canadiens were coming off clutch weekend wins over Ottawa that solidified their hold on first place in the Atlantic Division. They faced a non-playoff opponent, the no-longer-mighty Detroit Red Wings.
But an Overtime goal by homeboy Anthony Mantha gave Detroit a 2-1 win. Two nights later, Carolina romped to a 4-1 win at the Bell Centre, and two Senators wins during the week set up a battle for first place on Saturday.
The Canadiens beat Ottawa for the third time in a row, giving them a bit of breathing room atop the standings.