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[SPORTS] · Canada, United States · 2 sources

Canadiens’ top line sparks 6-2 win over Hurricanes in Eastern Final Game 1

Montreal’s top line of Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky and Nick Suzuki combined for six even‑strength points, fueling a 6‑2 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference final at the Lenovo Center. The trio broke out after a relatively quiet postseason, delivering a goal and solid defensive play that secured the win.

Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis praised the performance, noting the line’s confidence and identity. Winger Josh Anderson echoed the sentiment, saying, “You like to see your top guys produce… you knew they were going to break out at some point.” Hurricanes winger Taylor Hall described his team as “rusty” and “disjointed,” adding that the Canadiens “looked like an Eastern Conference final team.” The win improves Montreal’s road playoff record to 7‑2 and puts them in a strong position to take a 2‑0 series lead.