Montreal Canadiens vs. Winnipeg Jets: Live Score, Updates & Analysis

The Winnipeg Jets gave the Montreal Canadiens everything they had Thursday, but just didn't get the help they needed from the New York Rangers or Ottawa Senators to make the anticipation last more than two periods.

The Jets came out flying, knowing exactly what was on the line against the Habs. Winnipeg needed points tonight to stay in playoff contention, along with losses by both the Rangers and Sens.

Both of those games kept the Jets tilt interesting as they both went to overtime, but the Washington Capitals couldn't hold off the Senators and the Carolina Hurricanes couldn't find a way to beat hungrier New York Rangers.

So now the Jets collect their things and put a bow on their second season in Winnipeg without a playoff appearance while the Canadiens are still in a gutsy fight with the Boston Bruins for the Northeast Division crown.

Both the Canadiens and the B's won their games tonight, keeping them in a deadlock for the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Both squads have 59 points and are tied in ROW with 24. Races don't get much closer than that.

The bottom of the East is just as interesting as the top, with a three-way tie in points among the Rangers, Senators and New York Islanders.

With only three days left to go in the season, teams around the league are doing a good job of keeping things interesting for us fans.

Hats off to the Jets for another season to build on, and credit goes to the Canadiens for smelling the blood in the water and finishing off a demoralized team.

FINAL: Montreal Canadiens - 4  Winnipeg Jets - 2