The Montreal Canadiens’ preseason clash with the Pittsburgh Penguins was expected to be a routine test of early season form, but what unfolded in the first period sent a ripple of concern through fans and players alike.

While the scoreboard showed a narrow deficit for the Canadiens, the real drama was happening away from the numbers—a moment that left the crowd holding its breath and teammates rallying in unexpected ways.

As the game progressed, a single incident quickly became the focal point of attention, overshadowing the usual excitement of preseason hockey.

The tension in the arena was palpable, with every shift and every play carrying an extra layer of intensity. A young star found himself at the center of a worrying scene, only to be met with a display of camaraderie and veteran leadership that spoke volumes about the spirit within the Canadiens’ locker room.

But the story doesn’t end there. Amid the chaos and concern, other players quietly stepped up, showing flashes of skill and poise that could shape the team’s future.

The first period may not have delivered the result the Canadiens wanted, but the true impact of what happened on the ice is just beginning to unfold. Keep reading to discover the details behind this dramatic night.

Ivan Demidov

Photo credit: Screenshot

The Montreal Canadiens trail 1-0 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, but it’s not just the score that’s drawing attention after one period.

Ivan Demidov took a dangerous hit to the head, delivered by Robby Fabbri. The young Russian got back up and looked fine, but the hit still worried everyone.

Josh Anderson didn’t hesitate for a second to step in and defend his teammate. I loved seeing the veteran react so quickly to protect Ivan Demidov.

This kind of gesture shows just how much he cares about his teammates and the Montreal Canadiens.

Here’s the clip:

In my opinion, Fabbri should have been penalized. Plays like that have no place in hockey, especially not in a preseason game.

The Canadiens Do Not Deliver Their Best First-Period Performance

Overall, the period was rather quiet.

The Canadiens still had a two-man advantage, a 5-on-3, but despite a few good chances, the team couldn’t beat the opposing goalie.

That kind of sequence can prove costly in a tight game.

On his side, I thought Jayden Struble stood out with simple, effective play.

I think he was solid in his decisions and calmed things down a few times when the Penguins tried to apply pressure.

Even though the Habs haven’t found the back of the net yet, that kind of defensive contribution can keep the team in the game.