Prime Minister Mark Carney visited the Montreal Canadiens dressing room following their 2-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Carney, in Montreal for a Liberal party convention, attended the game after a day of engagements.
He met with key players including captain Nick Suzuki, forwards Alex Newhook and Jake Evans, and defenceman Mike Matheson. The game was marked by intense play, a dramatic finish, and Cole Caufield scoring his 50th goal of the season.
Carney, who arrived in the second period with the score tied 0-0, shared his enjoyment of the "fantastic game" with the team. He celebrated Caufield's milestone goal and Juraj Slafkovsky's late game-winner, which sealed the win for Montreal.
Upon entering the locker room, Carney applauded the team and spoke with captain Nick Suzuki, calling the moment a "key moment in the game." Head coach Martin St. Louis noted a brief discussion with Carney about "leadership."
Despite being a lifelong Edmonton Oilers fan, Carney wore two Canadiens hats during the event. His visit follows a period of political activity, with three byelections scheduled for Monday.