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The x-factor Price keeps Kings in check to maintain perfect record

Toronto Maple Leafs v Montreal Canadiens

MONTREAL, QC - OCTOBER 29: Carey Price #31 of the Montreal Canadiens looks on during the NHL game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Bell Centre on October 29, 2016 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 2-1. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)

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Carey Price almost made it look easy.

With the Montreal Canadiens leading the L.A. Kings by three goals on Thursday, Price recovered to rob Anze Kopitar with a sprawling save, the Habs goalie deflecting the puck over the net and out of play at the end of a scramble around his crease.

It was a spectacular save, but really, what else would you expect from Price?

He told reporters following Montreal’s 4-1 win over the Kings that he got “lucky” with the save. He’s definitely got a point. Whether it’s luck or skill or at times a combination of the two, Price continues to provide stellar goaltending for the Habs.

The backbone of the Habs, Price made 23 saves versus the puck possession beasts from L.A.

It’s no secret the Habs rely heavily on their star puck stopper, and players have admitted that they need to cut down on allowing so many shots on Price.

It’s no coincidence that the demise of that team’s playoff chances last season accelerated with Price out due to injury.

He certainly provides an X-factor for his team when healthy.

Montreal’s lone regulation loss, a well-documented stinker, this season came last week against Columbus. Price wasn’t in net. With the win Thursday, he improved his record to 9-0-0. He also boasts a save percentage of .953. That’s insane.

He will lose eventually this season. Right? But for now, Price is on another impressive roll. Another level.

As a result, the Habs have opened up an eight-point lead in the Atlantic Division.

Related: The Canadiens’ short-term outlook hasn’t changed much: It’s still all about Carey Price