The Montreal Canadiens are making a strong push for the playoffs, winning their fifth consecutive game with a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory against the Buffalo Sabres. Mike Matheson scored the decisive goal, while Nick Suzuki contributed significantly with a goal and three assists. The team has now moved within a point of a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, raising hopes of avoiding another trade-deadline sale.

Veteran Brendan Gallagher emphasized the team's determination not to be sellers again, especially with key players like Jake Evans, Joel Armia, and David Savard facing uncertain futures as unrestricted free agents. Head coach Martin St. Louis believes this pressure will serve as valuable experience for the players. As they embark on a crucial road trip, the Canadiens are rallying around the idea of being in “playoff mode” already.

Mike Matheson clinched a thrilling overtime victory for the Montreal Canadiens, defeating the Buffalo Sabres 4-3. Despite squandering a 3-0 lead, the Canadiens secured their fifth straight win, with Nick Suzuki contributing significantly with a goal and two assists. Cole Caufield also shone brightly, netting his 30th goal of the season. The Sabres, on the other hand, have now lost three consecutive games, with Rasmus Dahlin managing to equalize late in regulation before Matheson sealed the game.

Montreal's defensive performance was underwhelming, being heavily outshot 36-20, particularly in the second and third periods. However, Sam Montembeault's 33 saves were crucial in achieving this hard-fought win. As the Canadiens inch closer to a wild-card playoff spot, the Sabres languish at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

This week saw stellar performances from NHL stars, leading to the selection of the Three Stars presented by GEICO. Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning earned the top honor after a remarkable week, stopping 71 of 73 shots, achieving a 0.67 GAA and a .973 save percentage, contributing to his team's eight-game winning streak. Roope Hintz of the Dallas Stars was the second star, dominating with nine points, including a career-high four assists in one game, while Nick Suzuki of the Montreal Canadiens rounded out the trio with a total of seven points, helping his team in their quest for a playoff spot.

Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning has been named the NHL's First Star of the Week after an impressive performance, going 3-0-0 with a mere 0.67 goals-against average and a .973 save percentage. He notably secured his 38th career shutout against the Calgary Flames, demonstrating his elite goaltending skills as the Lightning extended their winning streak to eight games.

Dallas' Roope Hintz, the Second Star, led the league with seven assists and nine points over three games, showcasing his playmaking ability and helping the Stars secure two victories. Meanwhile, Montreal's Nick Suzuki rounded out the top three stars, contributing significantly to the Canadiens' playoff push with seven points in three games, including three goals and four assists. Suzuki's efforts have brought the Canadiens closer to a playoff spot, underlining his leadership as captain.

The NHL season heats up with a packed Saturday evening slate, and fantasy players have plenty to contemplate. Target the Ottawa Senators' top line against the San Jose Sharks, who have struggled defensively. Tim Stutzle is in peak form with a 10-game point streak and a favorable matchup. The Buffalo Sabres' line faces the Montreal Canadiens, also with defensive weaknesses, highlighting Tage Thompson's recent scoring surge. The Canadiens' top line, led by Nick Suzuki, is equally appealing with their offensive momentum.

Moving to defensemen, Jake Walman has been a standout for the Sharks, while Quinn Hughes returns strong after injury. Goaltender Lukas Dostal faces a struggling Blackhawks offense, making him a worthy target. Monitor injury news closely, as lineup changes may significantly affect performance. Utilize premium DFS tools for optimal lineup management and strategy adjustments.