The Carolina Hurricanes shut out the Montreal Canadiens 4-0 in Game 4, pushing the Eastern Conference final to the brink. A shocking stat line defines the series: Carolina's .914 save percentage against Montreal's .804. Despite some of the worst goaltending this century, the Hurricanes have a commanding 3-1 series lead.
The Canadiens, playing their 18th game in 38 nights, appeared exhausted. They generated little offense and surrendered five odd-man rushes in the first period alone. Carolina's swarming forecheck overwhelmed Montreal from the opening faceoff.
Bright spots for Montreal include young forward Ivan Demidov. Over this playoff run, he has learned to win puck battles and create time for himself. Expect a breakout season next year.
Jakub Dobes has been the postseason's best goalie with a 14.7 goals saved above expected, but he couldn't hold off Carolina's relentless attack. This loss was not his fault.
Head coach Martin St. Louis deserves credit. He beat Jon Cooper and Lindy Ruff earlier in the playoffs. This team overachieved, finishing with 106 points after a preseason projection of 91.
General Manager Kent Hughes executed one of the most clever trades in recent memory. He acquired Sean Monahan and a first-round pick from Calgary, then traded Monahan to Winnipeg for another first-round pick. Those assets became defenseman Noah Dobson and prospect Michael Hage.