MONTREAL — This was supposed to be a measuring-stick game for the Atlantic Division-leading Montreal Canadiens, but they weren’t up to the task in their 4-1 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. They’re weren’t even close.
Through 45 games prior to Wednesday’s loss, the Canadiens had clawed their way to a 27-12-6 record, persevering through several injuries to key players on the strength of what head coach Michel Therrien had often referred to as “exceptional work ethic.”
But according to Therrien, that trademark was nowhere to be found against the Penguins.
“We played a really good hockey team, this is the Stanley Cup champion,” said Therrien. “To give yourself a chance to win this hockey game you gotta compete. We didn’t compete. Our focus was not quite there. It’s a disappointing night.”
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You needn’t look further than the goals the Penguins scored to get a sense for what Therrien was referring to.
Defenceman Ian Cole’s third goal of the season was a seeing-eye shot that found its way through several unchecked bodies in front of Canadiens goaltender Carey Price. Forward Erik Fehr’s goal, which came five minutes into the second period, was a gift from the middle of the slot. Forward Jake Guentzel found himself all alone in front of Price for Pittsburgh’s third — an easy tip off Cameron Gaunce’s point shot. And Olli Maatta’s first goal of the season essentially mirrored Cole’s game-opener.
“It’s just about being gritty,” said Canadiens defenceman Mark Barberio. “They were winning more battles than us tonight.”
Sometimes, it really is that simple.
The Canadiens had only mustered 12 shots on net through two periods of Wednesday’s game, they were outdone in all three zones, and they hadn’t pushed the pace of play enough to even draw a power play.
Penguins goaltender Matt Murray, who had allowed seven goals in a win over Washington on Monday, was virtually given a free pass.
Canadiens forward Torrey Mitchell whiffed on a one-timer from the slot in the first period several moments before teammate Shea Weber bounced a pass over wide-open Sven Andrighetto’s stick. Those were two of Montreal’s best chances that never even made it to Murray’s net.
In the second period, a three-way passing play between Montreal forwards Alexander Radulov, Paul Byron and Alex Galchenyuk finished in a similar fashion.
At the other end of the ice, the Canadiens botched clearing attempts, missed defensive assignments, and the goals against became an eventuality.
“If the puck doesn’t get out or the puck doesn’t get eaten, we’re reacting and we’re not set up defensively in our structure,” said Montreal captain Max Pacioretty. “Everyone’s gotta want the puck and want to be the difference.”
But too many Habs were caught watching instead of dictating play.
At a certain point, you have to wonder if fatigue plays a role in the lack of effort the Canadiens displayed in Wednesday’s game.
A lack of practice has to be a factor as well.
The World Cup of Hockey and scheduled bye-weeks for all 30 teams has made for a condensed schedule that’s been very demanding. And rest in between games has been valued over maintaining a steady practice schedule.
The Canadiens, who are in the midst of a stretch that has them playing eight games in 13 nights, have practised just twice over the last two weeks.
“Obviously there’s a balance between rest and practice,” said Montreal defenceman Jeff Petry. “We see video, but I think it’s beneficial to work on things on the ice, too.”
Perhaps that’s why a tentatively scheduled practice for Thursday wasn’t canceled, regardless of the Canadiens preparing for back-to-back games against the New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres to be played Friday and Saturday, respectively.
Practice may not cure a divergence from the work ethic that’s made Montreal the NHL’s sixth-most successful team this season, but it’s a good place to fix some of the other issues plaguing the team.
The breakdowns in front of Price have become a trend in recent weeks, and it’s been reflected in his statistics, with him allowing three or more goals in eight of his last 10 starts.
Those are things that can be ironed out over time.
But as Therrien said on Wednesday: “When you don’t compete, you don’t have a chance.”
Especially not against a quality opponent like Pittsburgh.
