Habs Pick Up Another Big Win-Habs 3, Rangers 1

The Montreal Canadiens continued their hot play with a dominate 3-1 win over the New York Rangers at MSG. With the Rangers sitting in 9th in the East, the game was very important for both clubs. But it was the Canadiens who carried the play, outshooting the Rangers 35-20. Despite the big discrepancy in shots, the Habs needed a goal by Sergei Kostitsyn 5:59 into the 3rd to break a 1-1 tie. Tomas Plekanec iced the game into an empty net with the Canadiens shorthanded, while Glen Metropolit scored on the power play in the 1st. Jaroslav Halak made 19 saves for the win, while Ranger goalie Henrik Lundqvist kept his team in it, making 32 stops. The Canadiens did an excellent job on Gaborik and Joikinen, holding them to 0 points with only 2 shots. The penalty kill was very strong, killing off all 5 Rangers opportunities. The power play went 1/4 on the night. In typical Sean Avery fashion, with under 10 seconds to play he was assessed a cross checking minor along with a slashing major and a game misconduct. Tortorella along with Avery should be disciplined for this. Classesless, that's all plays like that are. Some other thoughts from a great performance:

>The 3rd and 4th lines continue to add a ton of value. Not only are they chipping in with goals, but they are playing a physical brand of hockey and using their speed to create chances.

>The defence as a whole was excellent. I thought O'Byrne was a rock again tonight. He is easily the most improved Canadien.

>Halak wasn't tested much, but made some big stops, especially late. Any rebounds he did kick out were cleared away quickly.

What a big win for the Canadiens tonight. The win not only put some more distance between Montreal and the 9th place Rangers, but also moved the Canadiens into 6th, within a point of the Sens. This was a complete victory and they deserved to win. The Silver Wolf Whiskey Hab of the Game goes to Tomas Plekanec. Pleks scored an empty net goal, but was great again in both ends. And to think he was a game time decision. Consideration also given to Moore and O'Byrne. Next up, the Laffs on Saturday night....which I will have to miss.