Call of the Wilde: Montreal Canadiens wrap up road trip with 4-2 win over Columbus

Fatigue was no doubt setting in, but Montreal gave it their best, getting stronger as the game went along and winning 4-2. Brian Wilde has more.

It was the fifth and final game of a road trip across the United States for the Montreal Canadiens in Columbus, Ohio, on Wednesday night. The Canadiens had a two and two mark in the first four games, with wins in Anaheim and San Jose and losses in Boston and Los Angeles.

Surely, fatigue was setting in, but Montreal gave it their best, getting stronger as the game went along and winning 4-2.

While the on-ice activities left quite a lot to be desired at times in this one, especially a dead first period, action in the press box was exciting and dramatic.

Three scouts from the Edmonton Oilers were at the contest in Columbus. That’s a huge number, and indicates a significant moment. Assistant GM Brad Holland, pro scout Warren Rychel and goaltending scout Jeff Salajko attended the contest.

Edmonton is winning games recently thanks to 12 points in three games for Connor McDavid. However, the Oilers goaltending is still abysmal. Stuart Skinner put in an .852 save percentage against Vegas Tuesday night that the Oilers won 5-4. The solution does not appear to be on their roster.

Enter Samuel Montembeault to perhaps solve their issues. Montembeault has one of the best goals saved above expected numbers in the league and a save percentage of .910. The Oilers have a league-worst .870 save percentage. Skinner’s personal number is .875. His backup, Jack Campbell, is in the minors trying to find his game. It hasn’t gone well. Campbell is .884 in Bakersfield for the Condors after an .873 in Edmonton.

Montembeault was outstanding in the first period, making quality stops. In the second period, he finally allowed the first goal of the game on a breakaway to Patrick Laine. One goal on 16 shots. That’s a night of sweet dreams in Edmonton. During some games, 16 shots is nearly a complete game total for Edmonton in allowed shots.

Montembeault also not at fault on the second goal as the puck bounded back and forth across the crease. That type of movement in front of a goalie is unstoppable. Montembeault ended up swimming back to try to make the play. He could not.