Canadiens’ Kirby Dach supported by teammates after Game 2 OT blunders

The Montreal Canadiens lost Game 2 against the Tampa Bay Lightning in overtime during their first-round series. Unfortunately, the sequence leading to the loss drew criticism toward forward Kirby Dach. This criticism has raged even heading into Game 3 at the Bell Centre in Montreal.

Dach iced the puck in overtime, which led to a defensive zone faceoff. On the ensuing play, Dach blew his coverage against defenseman JJ Moser. Moser had a free look and fired the game-winning goal past Jakub Dobes to even the series 1-1.

JJ MOSER WINS IT IN OT FOR TAMPA TO TIE THE SERIES

THE HABS DIDN'T HAVE A SHOT ALL OF OVERTIME pic.twitter.com/cerW0E8OSA

— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) April 22, 2026

Dach and his teammates have heard the criticism regarding this sequence. However, they are not letting the noise affect them. More importantly, those within the Habs dressing room are supporting the former first-round pick.

“Obviously stuff doesn’t go your way all the time,” Montreal defenseman Jayden Struble said after practice Thursday, via NHL.com. “Everything’s just heightened in the playoffs, which doesn’t help. But we all love him and we all know he’s a great player.

“At a certain point you’ve just got to tune everything out. The only opinions that matter are the ones inside this room. We all have his back and we’re here for him, and just move on, things happen.”

Dach played only 37 games during the regular season, but produced nearly a half-point per game in that time. He has been with the Canadiens since the 2022 NHL Draft. Montreal swung a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks to acquire his services at that event.

The Canadiens are hoping he can provide an impact in this series. Unfortunate plays and missed assignments are bound to happen, but they believe in what he has to offer. Dach has a chance to show the world what he can do on Friday night when the Canadiens and Lightning return to the ice for Game 3.

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