The Montreal Canadiens received excellent news in the past few hours.

Kent Hughes has been criticized quite a bit in recent days, particularly for not making moves at the trade deadline and for not capitalizing on the value of certain assets, such as Joel Armia and David Savard.

However, the general manager and the entire team received excellent news in the past few hours with a big loss by the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Kent Hughes’ decision is aging better and better.

With the Blue Jackets’ 4-0 loss last night..

The Canadiens are now just one point away from a playoff spot, and the Blue Jackets no longer have a game in hand!

At the moment, here’s the current picture:

In the playoffs – Columbus Blue Jackets (70 points in 65 games)

Out of the playoffs – New York Rangers (70 points in 66 games)

Out of the playoffs – Montreal Canadiens (69 points in 65 games)

Out of the playoffs – Detroit Red Wings (68 points in 65 games)

It will be fascinating to watch in the coming weeks, but the Blue Jackets’ loss last night is a big boost for the Habs.

As you can see, the Canadiens are truly in the thick of the race.

Tomorrow night’s game against the Florida Panthers will be extremely important for head coach Martin St-Louis’ squad.

And you, do you believe?

In any case, a big thank you to the Vegas Golden Knights!