Habs on the Brink, But Optimistic

NEWARK, N.J. -- Following the team's 7-3 drubbing in Game 5 at the hands of the Devils, the Canadiens find themselves one game from elimination in round one of the playoffs. After a convincing 5-2 win in Game 4 in Montreal, goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy was chased from the net early in Game 5. "Tough loss. Not the kind of game we needed at this point of the series," commented GM Mike Cooley.

The team will now have to regroup for a do-or-die Game 6 in Montreal. "Home ice. Home ice advantage is huge in the playoffs and we need to use that to our advantage in game six in order to force a game seven. Although, one of our greatest weaknesses throughout the season and even here in the playoffs has been the failure to close out games on the road, however, if any team can overcome adversity...this one can," added Cooley.

After having a tough time really getting to Devils goaltender Ryan Miller in Games 2 and 3, the Habs broke through and chased Miller from the net in Game 4 building a quick, 4-0 lead. The Devils returned the favor in Game 5 as Vasilevskiy was pulled in favor of backup David Rittich.

After the Game 5 loss, the Habs locker room felt down, but certainly not out. "We're not done yet. New Jersey has a solid team and we've had a lot of one goal games throughout the season and even some here in the playoffs. We knew this round one series would be a dogfight. Regardless of whether this team is still playing after this week, the future is bright in Montreal and we're looking forward to it," commented Cooley.

GAME 6 THURSDAY NIGHT:
Devils @ Canadiens 

Devils lead series 3-2