Montreal Canadiens defeat Winnipeg Jets in 2026 Heritage Classic

The Montreal Canadiens secured a 2-1 victory over the Winnipeg Jets during the NHL Heritage Classic held at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg. Rookie goaltender Jacob Fowler led the Canadiens with a standout performance, making 33 to 34 saves to improve his season record to 5-1-0. Fowler became the youngest goaltender to start an NHL outdoor game at 21 years old.

Montreal's scoring was provided by defenders Lane Hutson and Kaiden Guhle, with Cole Caufield contributing two assists. The Jets' lone goal came from Isak Rosen late in the third period. The game also marked the return of Montreal forward Florian Xhekaj from injured reserve.

The matchup followed a significant week for the Winnipeg Jets, who recently traded franchise goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils in a blockbuster deal. The trade included assets such as Dawson Mercer, Nico Daws, Nick Bjugstad, and Alexander Corbet in exchange for the veteran goalie.