Canadiens rout Stars 5-2 in Dallas; Caufield, Newhook each score twice

Early Momentum Shifts

The Montreal Canadiens dismantled the Dallas Stars defense in front of 18,532 fans at American Airlines Center on Thursday, October 29, 2026. The visitors secured a 5-2 victory that highlighted a stark offensive disparity. Cole Caufield and Alex Newhook were the primary drivers for Montreal, with each player recording two goals in the win. The game’s trajectory was largely set in the opening frame, where the Canadiens outscored the home team 3-1 to establish a comfortable cushion early in the contest.

First Period Dominance

Montreal struck first with a snap shot by Cole Caufield, assisted by Phillip Danault and Alexandre Carrier. The Stars responded quickly, as Wyatt Johnston tied the score at 1-1 with help from Mikko Rantanen and Miro Heiskanen. However, the visitors reasserted control when Alex Newhook scored on a backhand, assisted by Noah Dobson and Lane Hutson. Caufield then added his second goal of the game, assisted by Adam Engstrom and Juraj Slafkovský, to give Montreal a 3-1 lead heading into the intermission. The first period saw significant contributions from both teams, but the Canadiens maintained the offensive initiative throughout the stanza.

Second and Third Periods

In the second period, Alex Newhook extended the lead with his second goal, assisted by Chris Kreider and Noah Dobson. Dallas managed to pull one goal back when Jamie Benn scored a wrist shot, assisted by Mikko Rantanen and Wyatt Johnston, making the score 4-2. The Stars failed to score in the third period, allowing Montreal to add an empty-netter or late goal. Phillip Danault scored the final tally for Montreal, assisted by Jake Evans, to seal the 5-2 result. The defensive structure of the Canadiens limited the Stars to just one goal in the final two periods, effectively neutralizing any comeback attempt.

Final Records and Performance

The result improves the Montreal Canadiens’ record to 8-3-2, giving them 18 points. The Dallas Stars fall to 7-5-1, sitting at 15 points. For the Stars, Wyatt Johnston finished with one goal and two points, while Mikko Rantanen recorded two assists. For the Canadiens, Cole Caufield led with two goals and two points, and Noah Dobson provided two assists. The game showcased Montreal’s depth and ability to capitalize on early chances, resulting in a decisive road win.

Sources

ESPN