Bolduc Shines with Two Goals in Canadiens' 4-1 Win Against Blackhawks

Zachary Bolduc was the standout performer for the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday night, netting two goals to help his team secure a decisive 4-1 win over the Chicago Blackhawks at the Bell Centre. Additionally, Lane Hutson impressed by contributing three assists, with one on Bolduc’s initial goal, marking a historic achievement for the franchise.

The action began with the Blackhawks scoring first as Frank Nazar deflected a shot past Montreal's goalie Jakub Dobes at just 7:27 into the first period. This marked Chicago's first shot of the game, highlighting a slight vulnerability in Montreal's defense. However, the Canadiens quickly regrouped and seized control of the match.

Montreal’s Cole Caufield executed a sleek maneuver behind the net, setting up Bolduc for a powerful one-timer from the slot at 14:23, leveling the score. This was Bolduc’s first goal at the Bell Centre this season and his eighth overall, igniting the crowd. The 22-year-old from Trois-Rivières, Quebec, celebrated joyfully after this significant score.

In the third period, Bolduc scored again just 20 seconds in, deftly redirecting a puck to push Montreal ahead 2-1. Noah Dobson added another goal at the 10-minute mark, followed by Nick Suzuki sealing the win with an empty-netter to finalize the score at 4-1.

Jakub Dobes recorded 14 saves for the Canadiens, while Spencer Knight managed 32 saves for the Blackhawks, who have now suffered four straight losses, missing star center Connor Bedard, a gap Montreal effectively capitalized on.

Coaching decisions were pivotal, as Montreal had two goals disallowed for offside, whereas Chicago had one negated due to goalie interference—highlighting the significance of these strategic choices.

With his assist on Bolduc’s first goal, Lane Hutson made franchise history by reaching 60 assists in a single calendar year, becoming the first Canadiens defenseman to achieve this feat. Despite missing veteran Mike Matheson, Hutson logged an impressive 26:19 of ice time.

The Canadiens outshot the Blackhawks 35-15, dominating play throughout. Although Nazar ended a 21-game goal drought, Chicago was unable to keep pace with Montreal's skill and efficiency.

This victory underscored the Canadiens' cohesive effort and Bolduc's rising influence in the squad, with Hutson setting records and key players stepping up, positioning Montreal as a significant contender in this NHL season.