BUFFALO –  

The Montreal Canadiens pursue a road win in Buffalo on Thursday to regain the lead in their second-round NHL playoff series against the Sabres.

The series is tied 2-2 after Montreal dropped a 3-2 decision to Buffalo at the Bell Centre in Game 4.


Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis talks to his team during second period, second round, game 4, NHL playoff action in Montreal on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi

Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis talks to his team during second period, second round, game 4, NHL playoff action in Montreal on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi

After losing the series opener 4-2 in Buffalo, Montreal recovered with 5-1 and 6-2 victories.

The Canadiens were among the best teams on the road this season. 

Montreal tied with four other teams at 24 wins in enemy arenas, which ranked second only to the Colorado Avalanche at 29.

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Teams that take a 3-2 lead in a best-of-seven series have historically had a winning percentage of almost 80 per cent, according to NHL statisticians.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 14, 2026.