Phillip Danault leads Canadiens to 6-2 win over Hurricanes in Eastern Conference final

Veteran centre Phillip Danault, reacquired by Montreal from the Los Angeles Kings for a 2026 second‑round pick, scored on a breakaway just 4:04 into Game 1 of the Eastern Conference final. His goal gave the Canadiens a lead they held onto, culminating in a 6‑2 victory over top‑seeded Carolina.

The win ended Danault’s 13‑game playoff goal drought and was followed by an assist on Alexandre Texier’s third‑period tally. teammates Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield praised his dedication, while coach Martin St. Louis highlighted his role in penalty killing and defensive play. “It’s an honour…always had the logo on my heart…it’s in my DNA,” Danault said after the game. The result continues Montreal’s playoff surge after series wins over the Buffalo Sabres and Tampa Bay Lightning.