The Montreal Canadiens closed their regular season with a 4-2 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday night, a game that felt every bit like a final tune-up before the playoff spotlight arrives.

With several key veterans resting, the Habs gave fans a glimpse of the future. Rookie defenseman David Reinbacher was paired with the dynamic Lane Hutson, while Zachary Bolduc and Joe Veleno slotted into the forward lines.

Despite outshooting the Flyers, Montreal couldn't sustain a full 60-minute effort in a contest that lacked playoff-level intensity, as both teams prioritized health over a hard-fought win.

The Flyers' young star, Matvei Michkov, provided the game's offensive highlight, scoring twice and adding an assist to hit the 20-goal mark for the season and lead Philadelphia's attack.

The Canadiens' response came from a familiar source. Veteran leader Brendan Gallagher buried his seventh goal of the year, cutting the deficit to one off brilliant setup plays from Kaiden Guhle and Alexandre Texier. Gallagher's relentless effort, as always, set a powerful example for the team's younger players.

Philadelphia quickly restored their two-goal cushion, however, capitalizing despite the Habs controlling high-danger chances in the second period. The loss concludes Montreal's regular season, shifting the focus entirely to the preparation and intensity required for the playoffs.