In a historic performance at the Bell Centre, French forward Alexandre Texier led the Montreal Canadiens to a commanding 4-1 victory over the Calgary Flames on Wednesday night. The win marked a triumphant return for the Habs in their first home game after a grueling seven-game road trip.
A Milestone Night for the French Forward
The spotlight shone brightly on Alexandre Texier, who achieved two significant career milestones. The 24-year-old not only recorded his first career three-point game but also reached the coveted mark of 100 NHL points. The timing was impeccable, coming just days after he was named to Team France's Olympic roster for the 2026 Winter Games in Milano Cortina.
Texier opened the scoring in the second period, beating Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf with a high shot from in close for his milestone 100th point. He didn't stop there, adding two assists later in the game. His final assist helped set up Cole Caufield's 21st goal of the season in the third period, capping off the scoring for Montreal.
Canadiens Dominate with Second Period Surge
After a scoreless first period, the Canadiens broke the game wide open with three goals in the middle frame. Following Texier's opener, rookie defenseman Lane Hutson blasted a one-timer from the high slot to double the lead. Oliver Kapanen then netted his 14th goal of the season just 1:07 later, keeping pace in the rookie scoring race.
Goaltender Jacob Fowler was stellar, making 28 saves and seeing his home shutout streak end at 116:38 when Joel Farabee scored for Calgary late in the second period. The Canadiens' defense and Fowler's composure ensured the Flames could not mount a comeback.
Validation for Montreal's Management
Texier's standout performance validated the strategic move by Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes. Hughes signed Texier after his contract was mutually terminated by the St. Louis Blues, where he had managed just one point in eight games. In Montreal, Texier has thrived, amassing 11 points in 21 games and cementing his place on the top line alongside Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield.
His 6'1", 200-pound frame and high hockey IQ have made him a perfect complement to his linemates. His performance has been so strong that it raises questions about the team's lineup even when injured forwards Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook return to action.
The victory was celebrated beyond the ice, with Quebec Premier François Legault tweeting "Vive la France!" after the game, acknowledging the special French connection in Montreal. The Canadiens now look ahead to a busy schedule of five games in seven nights before the Olympic break, starting with a matchup against the Florida Panthers.
