Canadians Edge Out Stars in Overtime Thriller

In a thrilling contest that went to overtime, the Montreal Canadiens slipped past the Dallas Stars with a 4-3 victory on January 4, 2026. Lane Hutson scored the decisive goal with just over three minutes left in the extra frame, securing the victory for the Canadiens.

Big Picture

This game was a captivating back-and-forth affair, showcasing the intensity and skill that both teams brought to the ice. Each period saw the lead switch, forcing fans to be on the edge of their seats. The Canadiens struck first but quickly found themselves battling back from behind after the Stars took the lead. Both teams displayed flashes of brilliance and resilience, ultimately leading to a well-earned victory for the Canadiens in overtime.

Turning Point

One of the game’s most defining moments came late in the second period. The Stars took a 2-1 lead thanks to a goal from Wyatt Johnston, who scored at 10:14. However, the Canadiens responded swiftly when Oliver Kapanen equalized just two minutes later, shifting the momentum back in their favor. Juraj Slafkovsky’s goal at 18:39 of the second gave Montreal a 3-2 lead, reinforcing their comeback and providing them the confidence they needed heading into the third period.

Despite the Stars tying it up in the third period, that late second-period sequence was pivotal, indicating the Canadiens’ ability to bounce back under pressure and set the stage for a dramatic finish.

Standout Performances

Several players made their mark on this game. For the Canadiens, Brendan Gallagher opened the scoring and was a key player throughout the match. Juraj Slafkovsky not only scored a goal but also provided an assist, showcasing his playmaking abilities. Lane Hutson emerged as the hero in overtime, finding the net and sealing the game for his team.

On the Stars’ side, Wyatt Johnston was a force to be reckoned with, netting two goals, including the equalizer that kept the Stars in contention. Mavrik Bourque contributed with a critical goal, proving his value in a high-pressure situation. Overall, these players displayed the talent and poise necessary for such a tightly contested game.

What It Means

This victory is significant for the Canadiens, who continue to build momentum as they progress through the season. Winning in overtime demonstrates their resilience and ability to handle pressure situations, which could be invaluable as they vie for playoff positioning. On the other hand, the Stars will have to regroup after letting a potential win slip away in front of their home crowd. They showcased moments of brilliance but will need to ensure they maintain focus for the full 60 minutes—and beyond—if they want to capitalize on scoring opportunities and secure wins in future matchups.