“I felt like my confidence was always there; it’s just feeling comfortable, feeling good, and playing good hockey with the team,” said Jakub Dobes after leading the Montreal Canadiens to a 4-3 shootout victory over the New Jersey Devils on April 4, 2026.
In a tightly contested game at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, Dobes made 35 saves, proving pivotal in the Canadiens’ success. Goals from Jayden Struble, Ivan Demidov, and Lane Hutson put Montreal ahead, but the Devils fought back, with Timo Meier scoring to tie the game at 3-3.
Montreal’s win propelled them to 100 points for the first time since the 2016-17 season, a significant milestone for the franchise. They are currently tied with the Buffalo Sabres and just two points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Atlantic Division.
Jack Hughes and Timo Meier each contributed a goal and an assist for the Devils, demonstrating their offensive prowess despite the loss. Canadiens’ head coach Martin St. Louis remarked, “I think we’re a good team… Tonight wasn’t our best, but we found a way.”
Defenceman Mike Matheson also reached a personal milestone, playing in his 700th career game. The Canadiens struggled on the power play, going 1-for-5, but their overall performance was enough to secure the win.
As the Canadiens continue to build momentum, they remain focused on finishing first in their division. “We’re trying to finish first; that’s the main focus right now,” Dobes added, emphasizing the team’s determination.
With this victory, the Canadiens are not only solidifying their playoff position but also igniting hopes of a deep postseason run. The next challenge awaits as they look to extend their winning streak further.