Kovy Returns to Haunt Habs-Sens 3, Habs 1

Alex Kovalev's much anticipated return to the Bell Centre ended in a 3-1 Sens victory and a 2 point peformance for the former Canadien. Kovy was cheered loudly after scoring in the 3rd after getting a mixture of cheers and boos throughout the game. The Canadiens dominated in the 1st, outshooting the Sens 13-3, but came away tied after a late goal by Cammi. The Sens then used the first of two 5 on 3's to take the lead before icing the game in the 3rd. A first period 5 on 3 for the Habs for nearly two minutes came up empty. Coach Martin's decison to keep Gionta on the bench and go with 5 left handed shots left me scratching me head. Pascal Leclaire was excellent for the Sens stopping 27 shots, while Carey Price played adeqaute, really not having a chance on any of the 3 goals and finishing with 18 saves. The Bell Centre crowd booed for much of the final minutes of the game and Hal Gill seemed to get jeered everytime he touched the puck. Some other thoughts after another tough loss:

>The first line generated lots of chances, but came away with only the Cammalleri goal.

>A pair of costly mistakes in the defensive zone lead directly to 2 Sens goals, the other came on a 5 on 3.

>The PP went 0/4 and the PK killed 4 of 5 Sens chances.

>The 3rd line of Lappy, Lats, and Dags worked hard, but failed to chip in with any goals. I think it is key for them to hit the scoresheet every now and then.

So 5 losses in a row. Not a good streak to be on. I would say the Canadiens held a territorial advantage overall, but again couldn't seem to pot any goal mouth scrambles. The failure to score on the long 5 on 3 hurt, but Cammi's goal to tie the game late seemed to spark the team. But 4 straight penalties to start the 2nd killed that. As for the Silver Wolf Whiskey Hab of the Game, this one was a tough one. Not many guys stood out tonight to be honest. Consideration was given to Cammi and Pleks but I am going to have to give it to a guy I never thought I would. Georges Laraque was great in his limited ice time (7:12). He controlled the puck along the boards and actually generated a couple of good scoring chances. If he would have fought it would have been even better. Next up, Tuesday against the surprising Thrashers.