| Scoring | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | F |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTL | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| TBL | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
Canadiens, First Round Game 5, beat Lightning 3–2 at AMALIE Arena on April 29, 2026.
The Montreal Canadiens emerged victorious over the Tampa Bay Lightning with a final score of 3-2 in Game 5 of the First Round. This win gives the Canadiens a crucial 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series, placing significant pressure on the Lightning as they attempt to avoid elimination.
With the Canadiens now leading the series 3-2, the Lightning find themselves on the brink of a playoff exit. The stakes were high for both teams, and the Canadiens capitalized on their chances, pulling ahead in this pivotal matchup. History suggests home teams haven't fared well in this series, and the Lightning will need to rally for a strong performance in the final games to avoid an upset on their home ice.
The turning point in this contest came early in the third period when Alexandre Texier scored just over a minute into the frame, pushing the Canadiens to a 3-2 lead. This quick strike shifted momentum firmly in favor of Montreal, giving them the confidence they needed as they faced a relentless Lightning squad. Despite pushing back and generating chances, the Lightning couldn’t find the equalizer, ultimately leaving them just short.
Brendan Gallagher opened the scoring for the Canadiens in the first period, setting the tone for his team. Kirby Dach was also instrumental, restoring the Canadiens' lead in the second period after Dominic James had equalized for Tampa. Ultimately, it was Texier's goal that sealed the deal for Montreal, highlighting their effective scoring depth.
On the Lightning side, Jake Guentzel’s goal late in the second period demonstrated the team’s persistent effort to fight back, but they could not build on that momentum.
Statistically, the Lightning outshot the Canadiens 40-24 and showed aggression with 23 hits, but they struggled with puck management, tallying 18 giveaways compared to 11 from the Canadiens.
Looking ahead, the Lightning must regroup and find a way to win on the road in Game 6 to force a decisive Game 7. The urgency has never been higher as they strive to keep their postseason hopes alive. The Canadiens, on the other hand, will aim to close out the series and secure their place in the next round.
Canadiens won 3–2.
The final score was Canadiens 3, Lightning 2.
Alexandre Texier, Brendan Gallagher, Kirby Dach.
Dominic James, Jake Guentzel.
Jakub Dobes made 38 saves on 40 shots (.950 save percentage).
Andrei Vasilevskiy made 21 saves on 24 shots (.875 save percentage).
At AMALIE Arena in Tampa, the Lightning home rink.
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