Canadiens clinch playoff spot for 2nd consecutive season

MONTREAL (AP) — The Montreal Canadiens wrapped up their second straight playoff spot Sunday when Detroit fell 5-4 to Minnesota, making them the first Canadian team to secure a postseason berth.

Last season, Montreal took the final spot in the Eastern Conference before falling to Washington in five games in the first round.

Montreal dropped a 3-0 decision to New Jersey at home Sunday night. The Canadiens are third in the Atlantic Division, even in points with second-place Buffalo and five ahead of Boston.

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AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl