Jacob Fowler (Credit: Getty Images) The Montreal Canadiens faced the Pittsburgh Penguins in their preseason opener. Samuel Montembeault returned from a hamstring injury. Jacob Fowler made his preseason debut. Owen Beck scored a key goal. Oliver Kapanen finished the shootout. These four players highlighted Montreal’s early strength and showed fans what to expect as the team prepares for the regular season.
Jacob Fowler steals the spotlight against the Pittsburgh Penguins
Jacob Fowler entered the game with 9:55 left in the second period. The Canadiens were down 1-0. Penguins forward Valtteri Puustinen broke in on a breakaway. He tried to score a five-hole, but Fowler blocked the shot. The Bell Centre erupted in cheers.Fowler stayed calm for the rest of the game. He made several key stops and kept Montreal level. In overtime, he denied a two-on-one chance, sprawling to stop Avery Hayes. Fowler finished regulation and overtime, having stopped all 13 shots. His performance showed why he is a top prospect for Montreal.
Samuel Montembeault returns strong after hamstring injury
Samuel Montembeault played the first period before Fowler took over. He was returning after a hamstring injury from last season. Montembeault faced 21 shots and stopped 20.His play gave Montreal a strong start. He handled pressure well and helped the Canadiens stay in the game. Montembeault’s return reassured fans that he is healthy and ready for the regular season. His calm presence set a positive tone for the team.
Owen Beck and Oliver Kapanen secure the Canadiens’ win
Montreal tied the game early in the third period. Owen Beck scored on his own rebound, sneaking the puck into an open net. Neither team scored after that, leading to overtime.In the shootout, Fowler stopped four of five Penguins shooters. Oliver Kapanen scored the deciding goal. The Montreal Canadiens won 2-1. The combined efforts of Fowler, Montembeault, Beck, and Kapanen. This highlighted Montreal’s depth. And fans left the Bell Centre encouraged about the team’s potential.Also Read: NHL star Connor McDavid’s wife, Lauren Kyle, opens her cottage retreat