Evans game-winner, Montembeault’s bounce-back game, and more: 3 reasons why Montreal Canadiens won 3-2 over Tampa Bay Lightning

The Montreal Canadiens pulled out a big 3-2 over division rivals Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday night at Bell Centre. Jake Evans got the game-winner for the Habs late in the third. With the win, the Habs handed the Bolts their second loss in as many nights.

The Montreal Canadiens scored three straight goals after trailing 2-0 early in the second. Juraj Slafkovsky (PPG), Alex Newhook and Jake Evans scored for Montreal, while Nikita Kucherov and Jake Guentzel did so for the Tampa Bay Lightning.

So, let’s take a closer look at the three key reasons why the Montreal Canadiens beat the Tampa Bay Lightning:

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Three reasons why the Montreal Canadiens beat the Tampa Bay Lightning

#3 Special teams got the job done

The Montreal Canadiens’ special teams got the job done. The Habs killed off four Tampa Bay penalties, going a perfect 4-for-4.

Meanwhile, the Habs got a goal on the power play, going 1-for-2 with the man advantage. The goal was crucial, as it got the Canadiens on the board with all of the momentum seemingly in the Lightning’s favor.

The success the Canadiens have found on special teams has been one of the biggest reasons why the Canadiens find themselves in the Eastern Conference playoff conversation.

#2 Evans’ game-winner

Jake Evans scored a beautiful one-timer to give the Canadiens the lead late in the third period. The goal would prove to be the game-winner, as the Bolts couldn't get an equalizer.

The play started with a key face-off win in the Montreal zone. As the Canadiens picked up the puck and transitioned up ice, Evans streaked down the left side, following center Joel Armia.

Armia exploited some open ice, making a cross-ice feed through the high slot where Evans buried a nifty one-time past Andrei Vasilevsky. Here’s a look at the goal:

The goal earned Evans the game’s first star.

#1 Montembeault’s 33 saves

Samuel Montembeault had a solid bounce-back game after giving up six goals in his last outing against the Toronto Maple Leafs. While he didn’t get pulled, the loss stung significantly, as the Habs blew a 3-0 lead.

Montembeault stopped 33 of 35 Tampa Bay shots. His performance was crucial, as the Bolts had a lopsided 35-22 advantage in the shot column. Most importantly, Tuesday night’s performance is a step in the right direction as Montembeault shook off his last outing.

The Canadiens will get a quick breather before taking on the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday night at Little Caesars Arena.