Josh Anderson Leads Canadiens to Comeback Victory Over Senators

MONTREAL — In a critical game for the Montreal Canadiens, Josh Anderson played through injury and inspired his team to a 6-3 comeback win against the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday night. Anderson, a key figure for the Canadiens, scored the game-tying goal and sealed the victory with an empty-netter in the third period, helping Montreal climb into the Eastern Conference’s second wild-card spot.

Martin St. Louis, the Canadiens’ head coach, praised Anderson for his leadership and determination throughout the season, despite dealing with an undisclosed injury. “From the beginning of the season, he’s had the pedal to the floor,” St. Louis said. “He’s giving us this kind of hockey while fighting through some tough physical issues. It’s contagious, the attitude he’s bringing.”

Anderson has been playing through a lingering injury since a collision with Arthur Kaliyev against the New York Rangers on January 19. Despite rarely practicing, he has yet to miss a game this season. His teammates have taken notice of his resilience, with captain Nick Suzuki saying, “He’s been playing through a lot, battling, and he’s been there in the fight with all of us.”

In the game against Ottawa, Anderson tied the score at 3 with a rebound goal past Senators goalie Linus Ullmark at 10:22 of the third period. Later, with Ottawa’s goalie pulled, Anderson added an empty-net goal to seal the victory. The Bell Centre crowd erupted with “Olé, Olé, Olé” chants as Anderson, who grew up a Canadiens fan, celebrated with his teammates.

Although Anderson’s production hasn’t quite matched his US$5.5-million salary, his leadership and willingness to accept a new role have been invaluable. St. Louis moved Anderson off the power play and onto the penalty kill this season, and the winger embraced the change. “He bought in and was fine with that change,” St. Louis said. “To be successful as a team, you need guys to accept certain roles.”

Tuesday’s win also highlighted the importance of secondary scoring for Montreal. While the top line of Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky has led the charge offensively, the third line of Anderson, Christian Dvorak, and Brendan Gallagher combined for four goals in the victory. St. Louis expressed his satisfaction with the team’s balanced scoring, emphasizing that secondary contributions are crucial for success.

The loss ended the Senators’ six-game win streak and narrowed their lead over Montreal in the standings to just four points. As both teams continue their push for the playoffs, their rivalry grows stronger, with Montreal’s recent success adding more fuel to the fire.