The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Montreal Canadiens 3-2 [1] in Game 4 [1] on Tuesday night, May 13, 2026 [4].
This victory prevents Montreal from taking a commanding lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal series and shifts the momentum back to Buffalo. The result ensures that the series remains competitive as both teams fight for a spot in the next round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
The game remained deadlocked in a 2-2 tie heading into the final frame. The breakthrough occurred in the third period when Zach Benson scored a power-play goal [3] to secure the win for the Sabres [1]. The goal served as a personal milestone for Benson, who scored the game-winner on his 21st birthday [4].
Buffalo's road win allows the team to tie the series at 2-2 [3]. The Sabres relied on a gritty defensive effort to hold off the Canadiens in the closing minutes of the game, a performance that keeps their playoff hopes alive.
The Canadiens had the opportunity to move closer to a series victory, but they struggled to capitalize on their own power-play opportunities in the final period. The loss leaves Montreal without a series lead as the matchup continues.
With the series now even, the two teams will move forward in the semifinals with equal footing [3]. Buffalo has demonstrated the ability to win under pressure on the road, while Montreal must now adjust its strategy to regain control of the series.
“The Sabres defeated the Canadiens 3-2 in Game 4”
By evening the series at 2-2, the Buffalo Sabres have eliminated the Canadiens' home-ice advantage for the remainder of the series. The emotional boost provided by a young player like Zach Benson scoring a pivotal goal on his birthday often creates a psychological shift in playoff momentum, placing increased pressure on Montreal to respond in the upcoming games.
