Alex Newhook delivered another clutch performance, scoring the Game 7 overtime winner 11:22 into extra time as the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Buffalo Sabres 3-2 on Monday night. Newhook's blast through a screen beat Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen inside the far post, marking his second Game 7-deciding goal of these playoffs after previously eliminating Tampa Bay.

Phillip Danault and Zack Bolduc provided Montreal's other goals, while Jakub Dobes made 37 saves to secure the victory. Buffalo rallied from a 2-0 deficit with goals from Jordan Greenway and Rasmus Dahlin, who tied the game 6:27 into the third period. The Sabres dropped to 1-7 in Game 7 history, including 1-3 in overtime scenarios.

Montreal advances to the Eastern Conference finals against the well-rested Carolina Hurricanes, who haven't played since May 9. The Hurricanes' 11-day break represents the longest gap between playoff games in NHL history. This marks Montreal's first trip to the semifinal round since their 2021 Stanley Cup Final appearance.

Buffalo's season ends after capturing their first Atlantic Division title and snapping a 14-year playoff drought. The young Sabres team showed promise throughout their breakout campaign and will look to build on this momentum heading into next season.