Suzuki’s OT heroics, strong power play, and more: 3 reasons why Montreal Canadiens won 4-3 in OT against Columbus Blue Jackets

The Montreal Canadiens snapped a two-game skid with a 4-3 overtime win over the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on Wednesday. The win earned the Canadiens two crucial points as they aim to catch the Ottawa Senators for seventh place in the Atlantic Division.

Nick Suzuki got the game-winner for the Montreal Canadiens 44 seconds into overtime, with Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky and Emil Heineman getting the other tallies for the Habs. Meanwhile, Mathieu Olivier, Yegor Chinakov and Zach Werenski got the markers for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Here are three reasons the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday night.

3 reasons why Montreal Canadiens won against Columbus Blue Jackets

#1. The power play was effective

Cole Caufield scored his 13th of the season with the man advantage. The goal was important as it tied the game at 2-2 early in the second period.

Overall, the Canadiens went 1-for-2 with the man advantage. That level of efficiency proved crucial in securing the win.

Montreal had a perfect night on the penalty kill, going 3-for-3. Their ability to shut down Columbus’ power-play opportunities was another key factor in the victory.

#2. A solid game from Cayden Primeau

Cayden Primeau got the start for the Montreal Canadiens on Wednesday night. While he wasn’t spectacular, he had a solid game. His performance allowed the Canadiens to stay in the game, particularly after the Blue Jackets tied the game midway through the second.

Primeau stopped 21 of 24 shots, a confidence-boosting outing following some weaker performances earlier in the season. He wasn’t tested in overtime as the Canadiens dominated possession in the extra frame.

#3. Nick Suzuki's overtime heroics

Nick Suzuki has had quiet stretches this season. However, he stepped up when it mattered most as he netted the overtime winner.

Suzuki made a strong defensive play, chasing Kent Johnson who flew up the right side of the ice. Suzuki’s effort allowed Lane Hutson to steal the puck and initiate a 2-on-1 with Caufield.

After Hutson dropped the puck back to Suzuki, the captain followed up his own shot to bury the rebound and seal the win.

The play showcased Suzuki's two-way ability. Habs fans will be hoping to see more of this performance from their captain moving forward.

The Habs return to action Saturday night when they take on the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden.