LAS VEGAS (AP) — Cole Caufield had a goal and assist to extend his point streak to six games, and the Montreal Canadiens handed the slumping Vegas Golden Knights a 4-1 loss on Friday.
Zach Bolduc and Juraj Slafkovský also each had a goal and an assist, and Jake Evans also scored for the Canadiens, who have won three straight games. Samuel Montembeault made 30 saves and was within 4:44 of his first shutout since a 4-0 win over Carolina on Feb. 25. That also was the last time Montreal blanked an opponent.
Mark Stone scored the lone Golden Knights goal to help Vegas avoid being shut out for the second time this season. That goal gave Stone at least a point in all eight of his games this season. He was playing in just his second game since returning from a wrist injury. Akira Schmid saved 15 shots.
The Golden Knights suffered their fourth straight regulation or overtime loss, and are 2-4-3 in their most recent nine home games.
Vegas, however, outplayed Montreal in many ways, outshooting the Canadiens 31-19. But the Habs had 12 high-danger chances compared to 10 for the Golden Knights, according to Natural Stat Trick, including a handful of breakaway chances.
The Canadiens earlier Friday signed defenseman Mike Matheson to a five-year, $30-million contract extension that takes him through the 2030-31 season.
Up next
Canadiens: Play at Utah on Saturday.
Golden Knights: Host San Jose on Saturday.
___
AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl
-
Smith's goal in 3rd period helps the Golden Knights beat the Canucks 2-1
Vegas extended its winning streak to four games under new head coach John Tortorella, who took over behind the bench March 31.
Golden Knights beat Oilers 5-1 to tighten Pacific Division race
Carter Hart made 31 saves and the Vegas Golden Knights beat the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 on Saturday night to remain perfect in John Tortorella's first three games as coach.
Marner has 5 points, Golden Knights score 3 times in 3rd period to beat Flames
The Golden Knights are five points ahead of Los Angeles and San Jose for the third and final Pacific Division playoff spot. Vegas is three points behind division leaders Anaheim and Edmonton.
Knights in the Morning: Mitch Marner blends hockey, gaming in esports ownership
Mitch Marner says his involvement in esports stems from a longtime love of gaming, calling it a way to relax and stay connected with friends outside of hockey.