There was action in the National Hockey League last night, notably involving Patrick Roy and his New York Islanders.

As you know, among the closest pursuers of the Montreal Canadiens in the race for the 2025 playoffs are the Islanders, the Columbus Blue Jackets, and the New York Rangers.

Well, two of those three teams faced off last night!

Yes, it was an extremely important game for the Montreal Canadiens, and unfortunately, the worst-case scenario came true.

“We’re heading to overtime between NYI and CBJ. A 3-point game. Not a good scenario for the Habs.” – Anthony Marcotte

Indeed, both the Islanders AND the Blue Jackets picked up points last night, and both moved closer to the Montreal Canadiens.

It was probably the worst-case scenario for Martin St-Louis’ squad.

The Islanders and the Blue Jackets are closing in on the Montreal Canadiens in the Eastern standings and in the playoff race

Here’s the current picture.

So, let’s look at the positives, because the Canadiens still control their own destiny for a playoff spot at the moment.

That said, overtime between New York and Columbus was still the worst-case scenario.

Here is the current standings snapshot:

7- SENATORS (in the playoffs): 79 points in 69 games
8- CANADIENS (in the playoffs): 75 points in 69 games
9- ISLANDERS (out of playoffs): 74 points in 70 games
10- RANGERS (out of playoffs): 74 points in 71 games
11- BLUE JACKETS (out of playoffs): 73 points in 70 games
12- RED WINGS (out of playoffs): 72 points in 70 games

Patrick Roy’s squad climbs up one position and is now just one point behind the Habs.

Oh, and it should be mentioned that Detroit also picked up two points last night.. The Montreal Canadiens really need to collect points tonight against the St. Louis Blues!