BOING! Habs rebound after loss to Philly with solid win against Bruins

Last night's 4-3 win by the Habs over the Bruins was important for a bunch of reasons:

1. It stopped the Habs 3 game losing streak -- their longest of the season so far;


2. It allowed the team to stay on top of their division and put some room between themselves and the Bruins, who are now 4 points back but with two games in hand;


3. The Canadiens assumed the 2nd spot in the Eastern Conference, on divisional position, not points... but I'll take it;


4. It was the last home game for 7 games, so it was important to head out on the road on the right foot;


5. It showed the bounce back ability of this team... again.
   

Last night also presented a lot of firsts: Cammellari's first penalty shot, first penalty shot goal and first fight! That's right, he dropped the gloves with David Krecji and both walked away bloodied. If that doesn't motivate Lapierre to do this a bit more often, I don't know what will. He also just missed out on his first Gordie Howe hat trick!!

It was also the first goal for Max Pacioretty in his second game back with the big club. I know I'm not the only one saying this, but man, he looks very good so far, and seems to be just the thing that Gomez and Gionta needed.

That line looks complete now and so hopefully Gomez -- who's game has been trending upwards for the last two weeks, takes it to another level. Gionta is definitely on track and leading by example, per what we've come to expect from him. MaxPac brings size, skill and ruggedness to the line. Pierre McGuire compared him to Mike McPhee during the Flyers game on Thursday and I tend to agree with that. Use your size and speed, work hard, create momentum and get goals.

Now the Habs have two solid offensive lines and two good checking lines. Penalty kill still strong and the power play is producing.

This game wouldn't have been close if not for Timmy Thomas. The Habs seem to have his number though. This was only the 2nd time this season he's let in 4 goals.

Subban also had a bounce back game -- laying a bone-crunching hit on his ol' junior pal, Brad Marchand.

Habs start their 7 game road trip this Sunday in Denver against the Avalanche. A successful trip will go far in pushing the Habs into the second half of the season on a positive note.