OTTAWA, ON – Tim Stützle’s stellar performance, including a goal and two assists, propelled the Ottawa Senators to a decisive 6-2 victory over the Montreal Canadiens at Canadian Tire Centre on Thursday. Stützle’s resurgence in form was pivotal for the Senators, who have won two of their past three games after snapping a five-game losing streak.
Stützle has accumulated seven points in the last three games, a significant improvement after a seven-game stretch with just one assist. His efforts were recognized by Ottawa coach Jacques Martin, who praised Stützle’s skill and emphasized the importance of a 200-foot game for the young star.
The Senators saw contributions from Brady Tkachuk and Parker Kelly, each with a goal and an assist, and Artem Zub with two assists. Goaltender Joonas Korpisalo made 21 saves in the win, helping Ottawa improve to a 16-24-0 record.
For the Canadiens, Cole Caufield and Michael Pezzetta found the net, but their efforts were overshadowed by Ottawa’s offensive display. Cayden Primeau faced a barrage of shots, making 31 saves for Montreal, who now stand at 19-19-7.
Montreal’s struggle in back-to-back games continued, with a 1-8-0 record in such scenarios this season. Coach Martin St. Louis pointed out the team’s execution issues, particularly in the second period, and the challenge of their packed schedule.
Ottawa’s strong offensive play was evident from the first period, with Tkachuk giving them an early lead. Stützle’s goal in the second period was his first in 11 games, and Rourke Chartier and Vladimir Tarasenko extended the lead further. The Senators’ control of the game was solidified with a third-period goal by Mathieu Joseph, set up brilliantly by Stützle.
The win was a showcase of Ottawa’s potential when firing on all cylinders, with coach Martin praising the team’s effort and time spent in the offensive zone. Stützle’s performance was highlighted as elite by his teammate Joseph, demonstrating his ability to make high-level plays at full speed.
Looking ahead, the Senators will aim to build on this victory, while the Canadiens will seek to address their recent challenges as they continue their NHL campaign. The Senators’ performance against Montreal underscores their ability to compete effectively when their key players, like Stützle, are in top form.
