Canadiens inch closer to playoff spot with win over Predators

The Montreal Canadiens extended their lead for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference on Sunday.

Second-period goals from wingers Cole Caufield and Patrik Laine lifted the Canadiens to a 2-1 road win over the Nashville Predators.

Jakub Dobes made 36 saves in net for Montreal.

Steven Stamkos scored the lone goal for Nashville in what was their sixth-consecutive loss.

Montreal now sits six points up on the Rangers for the second wild-card spot. New York has one game in hand.

With an assist on Laine’s goal, Habs defenceman Lane Hutson tied Chris Chelios for the franchise record for points by a rookie blue liner with 64.

The Canadiens face the Red Wings in Montreal on Tuesday.