Positive Results for Canadiens Despite Loss to Capitals

The Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals took turns scoring on Saturday at the Bell Centre. Montreal put pressure in the final moments of regulation but was unable to bury the tying goal as Washington left the building with 4-3 win. 

The points in the standings are not important for the Canadiens this season as the focus is on player development and to grow as a team.  

Martin St. Louis heavily relied on the Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield and Juraj Slafkovsky trio, throwing them over the boards for 23 minutes. The top line registered 17 of the team's 31 shots. 

"It's a line that brings a lot of consistency recently. It's three players with a lot of confidence. They're very connected that makes them manage the puck well in the offensive zone and get a lot of shots. What we're seeing from that trio is very promising," said the coach praising his three forwards. 

Suzuki reached the 20-goal mark for a third consecutive season with a power play goal in the third period. The captain's point streak extended to 10 games and Slafkovsky's streak is now at eight contests. 

Alex Newhook had himself an excellent night in several facets of the game. The forward scored his eight of the season, first since returning from the high ankle sprain injury. 

"It's a good feeling. Tight game. Good to get one in those kind of situations but not the result that we wanted. We've only won one game since I've been back in. I feel like I can do a little more to help the team and get a few more results," said the 23-year old about his first goal since November 29th. 

The forward was on the ice for all three Montreal goals on Saturday and also excelled at the faceoff dot winning six of nine draws. 

Arber Xhekaj put the Canadiens on the board early in the first period with a one-timer that beat Darcy Kuemper glove side. It was the defenseman's first goal since returning to the NHL from the Laval Rocket. 

"I was pretty confident with the puck and I thought I played well. I got a couple of good hits, a couple of good shots so I felt good," he said evaluating his night where he took three shots on goal in 16:29 of ice time. 

"[Arber Xhekaj] has a lot more positive actions than negative. You will never play a perfect game. We have to continue working on improving his negative actions but there's a lot more positive than negative," said the head coach evaluating the progression of 'The Sheriff.' "It's not an easy position to play as a young player." 

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