Kapanen Nets Shootout Decider as Canadiens Edge Penguins 2-1
Montreal Canadiens forward Jesperi Kapanen scored the decisive goal in the fifth round of a shootout, lifting his team to a 2-1 pre-season victory over the Pittsburgh penguins on Monday. The game, played in Montreal, saw both teams utilize multiple goaltenders in readiness for the upcoming NHL season.
The pre-season contest offered a frist look at several players vying for roster spots as both teams navigate final cuts before the regular season begins. The Canadiens’ win provides a boost of momentum heading into TuesdayS home game against the Philadelphia Flyers, while the Penguins will look to rebound when they visit the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday.
Tristan Broz opened the scoring for Pittsburgh with a power-play goal at 10:26 of the first period. Owen Beck responded for Montreal, tying the game at 2-36 of the third period, just seven seconds after a Canadiens power play had expired.
A spirited fight broke out midway through the second period between Jared Davidson of the Canadiens and Sam poulin of the Penguins.
Sam montembeault started in net for Montreal,stopping 20 of 21 shots before being replaced midway through the second period by Jacob Fowler,who was perfect in regulation and overtime,stopping all 13 shots he faced. Fowler then stopped four of five shootout attempts.
Pittsburgh’s Joel Blomqvist stopped all 11 shots he faced in the first 30 minutes before being relieved by Sergei Murashov, who made 19 saves on 20 shots during regulation and overtime. Murashov allowed three of five shootout goals.
Montreal held a 32-23 advantage in hits and blocked 22 shots to Pittsburgh’s 18. The Penguins went 1-for-4 on the power play, while the Canadiens were 0-for-5.
This report was first published by The Canadian Press on Sept. 22, 2025.
