Slafkovsky's Late Goal Lifts Canadiens Over Lightning

Juraj Slafkovsky scores the go-ahead goal in the final minutes to give Montreal a 2-1 victory.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:08am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey player scoring a goal, with the puck, player, and net broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of blue, red, and white.Slafkovsky's late strike against the Lightning showcases the raw energy and fractured perspectives of a game-deciding moment.Ottawa Today

In a tight matchup between the Montreal Canadiens and Tampa Bay Lightning, Juraj Slafkovsky scored the game-winning goal late in the third period to lift the Canadiens to a 2-1 victory. Slafkovsky capitalized on a turnover by the Lightning, taking a pass from teammate Nick Suzuki and burying the puck past goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy.

Why it matters

This was a crucial win for the Canadiens, who are fighting to stay in playoff contention in the competitive Atlantic Division. Slafkovsky's late heroics showcased his scoring ability and provided a much-needed boost for the young Canadiens squad.

The details

With the game tied 1-1 in the final minutes, the Canadiens forced a turnover in the Lightning's zone. Nick Suzuki quickly fed the puck to Juraj Slafkovsky, who fired a wrist shot past Vasilevskiy to give Montreal the lead. The Canadiens were able to hold on for the final seconds to secure the victory.

  • The game-winning goal was scored with just under 2 minutes remaining in the third period.

The players

Juraj Slafkovsky

A 22-year-old forward for the Montreal Canadiens who scored the late go-ahead goal to lift his team to victory.

Nick Suzuki

The Canadiens' top center who set up Slafkovsky's game-winning goal with a perfect pass.

Andrei Vasilevskiy

The star goaltender for the Tampa Bay Lightning who made several key saves but was ultimately beaten by Slafkovsky's late shot.

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What they’re saying

“That was a huge goal for us. Juraj has been working so hard, and it's great to see him come through in a big moment like that.”

— Nick Suzuki, Center, Montreal Canadiens

What’s next

The Canadiens will look to build on this momentum as they continue their push for a playoff spot, with their next game coming against the division-leading Boston Bruins on Thursday.

The takeaway

Slafkovsky's late game-winner showcased the young forward's scoring touch and provided a much-needed boost for the Canadiens as they fight to stay in the playoff race. This victory over a top team like the Lightning could be a turning point in Montreal's season.