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Canadiens chase Lundqvist in massive win, regain NHL's top spot

Jared Silber / National Hockey League / Getty

The Montreal Canadiens are back atop the NHL standings with 36 points after a convincing 5-1 victory over the New York Rangers on Wednesday.

Devante Smith-Pelly, filling in on the first line for the injured Brendan Gallagher, scored two goals - including the eventual game-winner - to lead the Canadiens to victory.

Henrik Lundqvist was chased from a game for the first time this season after giving up five goals on 24 shots. Max Pacioretty buried his team-leading 12th goal of the season, which knocked the Rangers' goalie out of the game.

Tomas Plekanec was impressive yet again, recording three assists to take over the team lead with 23 points in 23 games. Alex Galchenyuk had a goal and an assist, while Sven Andrighetto scored for the first time this season.

The victory did come at a heavy cost. Carey Price, making just his third start since returning from a nine-game absence, left the game and did not return after aggravating a lower-body injury in the second period. He stopped 22 of the 23 shots he faced. Mike Condon was perfect in relief, stopping all 11 shots that came his way.

Montreal improved to an impressive 17-4-2, and will head to New Jersey for the start of a home and home against the Devils on Friday.

Ryan McDonagh scored the lone goal for the Rangers, who fall to 16-4-2 on the season. New York will look to get back on track Friday against the Boston Bruins.

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