MONTREAL — The San Jose Sharks finally ended their 12-game losing streak with a hard-fought 3-2 victory against the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre on Thursday. This win brings a sigh of relief to the team that has been struggling to find form in recent games.
Sharks defenseman Mario Ferraro expressed his relief and satisfaction with the team’s performance, acknowledging the need for improvement but appreciating the weight lifted by this victory. Goalie Mackenzie Blackwood was pivotal in the win, making 33 saves for his first road win of the season.
San Jose’s victory ends the longest losing streak in the NHL since the Buffalo Sabres’ 14-game slide in the 2014-15 season. Sharks coach David Quinn praised the character and resilience of his players, acknowledging the challenges they have faced and overcome with this significant win.
For the Canadiens (17-18-6), Mike Matheson provided two assists, and Sam Montembeault made 32 saves. However, their effort wasn’t enough to secure a win following their 3-2 shootout loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday.
The game saw Luke Kunin, Fabian Zetterlund, and Nikita Okhotiuk scoring for the Sharks (10-29-3). Kunin capitalized on a Canadiens defensive error to open the scoring, and Zetterlund’s one-timer doubled the lead for San Jose. Okhotiuk’s goal, his first of the season, further extended the Sharks’ advantage.
Brendan Gallagher and Josh Anderson scored for Montreal, with Anderson’s goal coming late in the third period. Despite a push in the final minutes, including a barrage of shots with Montembeault pulled for an extra attacker, the Canadiens couldn’t find the equalizer.
Coach Quinn reflected on the team’s gradual improvement throughout the game, emphasizing the need to build confidence shift by shift. The win is seen as a significant step in overcoming their recent struggles.
San Jose has enjoyed success in Montreal, winning eight straight games there since a loss in March 2015. Matheson commented on the need for the Canadiens to improve, irrespective of the opponent.
In a historical context, the Sharks have experienced longer losing streaks, including a 17-game streak in the 1992-93 season. For Matheson, the assist on Gallagher’s goal marked his 200th NHL point, a milestone in his career spanning 504 games with Montreal, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Florida Panthers.
