The Montreal Canadiens made unwanted NHL history on Tuesday night, squandering a 4-0 lead with under three minutes remaining in the third period against the Winnipeg Jets. The team ultimately lost 5-4 in overtime, marking what is being called the largest collapse in the league's history.
The Canadiens held a commanding lead until the final 2:57 of regulation. The Jets then scored four goals to tie the game, forcing overtime. Dylan Samberg scored the game-winning goal for Winnipeg just 2:12 into the extra period.
This unprecedented turnaround saw the Canadiens unable to secure the win despite their significant advantage late in the game. The shocking turn of events has left fans and analysts bewildered, as such a substantial lead with so little time remaining is rarely relinquished in professional hockey.
The loss occurred at the Bell Centre in Montreal. While the game was a regular-season matchup, the dramatic nature of the collapse ensures it will be remembered long after the season concludes.