In a dramatic Game 7 on May 18, 2026, the Montreal Canadiens edged the Buffalo Sabres 3‑2 in overtime, securing a second‑round berth. Alex Newhook netted the decisive goal 11:22 into the extra period, becoming the second player to record two Game 7 winners this postseason.

Newhook’s Overtime Goal Ends Sabres’ Run

Alex Newhook drove up the left wing, snapped a shot through a screen and beat Sabres netminder Ukko‑Pekka Luukkonen inside the far post, as reported by the Associated Press. the goal arrived at 11:22 of overtime, sealing a 3‑2 victory for Montreal and ending Buffalo’s hopes of advancing.

Canadiens’ Supporting Scorers: Danault and Bolduc

Phillip Danault and Zachary Bolduc each contributed a goal for the Canadiens during regulation, providing the cushion that allowed Newhook’s overtime strike to be decisive. their goals, combined with Newhook’s heroics, gave Montreal the three‑goal margin needed to survive the series.

Historical Echo: Second Player With Two Game 7 Winners

The AP notes that Newhook joins a short list of players who have recorded two Game 7 winning goals in a single postseason, a feat last seen in the early 2000s. this rare accomplishment underscores the clutch nature of his performance and adds a historic footnote to the Canadiens’ playoff run .

Who Remains Unanswered: Sabres’ Goaltending Question

Buffalo’s goalie Ukko‑Pekka Luukkonen allowed the overtime winner, but the report does not detail his overall performance metrics or whether he will retain the starting role moving forward. The Sabres’ coaching staff has yet to comment on any adjustments.

What the Playoff Landscape Looks Like Next

According to the AP, Montreal now advances to the conference finals,where they will face the winner of the other second‑round matchup. The Canadiens’ momentum , fueled by Newhook’s clutch scoring, positions them as a dark‑horse contender for the Stanley Cup.