The Canadiens are showing up 19 games too late after shutout win over Oilers

The Montreal Canadiens thought they'd contend for a playoff spot in the 2024-25 season. The first 17 games were a complete disaster, including their falling to the 32nd spot in the standings. A comeback from this hole has happened before, which we saw from last year's Edmonton Oilers. In an ironic twist, could the Canadiens' return to playoff contention have started with their most impressive win of the season on Monday night?

The Monday night Amazon Prime game could've been a tough time for the Canadiens. The Oilers were coming off a disappointing loss against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night, and they were ready to take their anger out on the Oilers. However, Sam Montembeault recorded a 30-save shutout to neutralize Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl and take a decisive 3-0 victory.

Everything was shaping up for the Oilers to blowout the Canadiens on Monday night. Montreal was coming off a convincing victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday night, and it felt like a real letdown spot against Edmonton. The Canadiens' ability to persevere and take this win in front of a national audience could be the momentum they need.

If you aren't aware of the standings after this win, you may roll your eyes about Habs fans getting their hopes up. However, despite being in seventh in the Atlantic Division, the Canadiens are only three points out of a playoff spot. The second wild card is the Boston Bruins, who have 19 points with 20 games played. The Canadiens have 16 points with 19 games played.

Six teams are in front of the Canadiens, but a quick winning streak after this two-game run could catapult Montreal near a wildcard spot. They also have some excellent news that is imminent, as Patrik Laine looks ready to return soon and improve the depth of the top six.

The Canadiens have put themselves in a spot where a winning streak is the only way to get back into playoff contention. If the Canadiens drop their next two games to the Vegas Golden Knights and Utah Hockey Club, all their hard work over the last two games will be for naught. It's only early, but the following week feels like a crucial time for the Canadiens to bring life back into the fanbase.