Washington Capitals vs Montréal Canadiens Picks and Predictions April 23rd 2025

Canadiens, Capitals Regroup After Game 1 OT Battle: Focus Shifts to Game 2

Game 1 of the first-round clash between the Washington Capitals and Montreal Canadiens delivered playoff drama from start to finish — and both teams know there’s no time to dwell on the result. As Game 2 approaches on Wednesday night in D.C., the Canadiens aim to even the series, while the Capitals hope to carry momentum from Alex Ovechkin’s overtime winner into a 2-0 series lead.

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Ovechkin’s Moment, Capitals’ Wake-Up Call

Washington looked in full control after two periods in Game 1, with Alex Ovechkin’s power-play goal and Anthony Beauvillier’s even-strength tally staking them to a 2-0 lead. The Canadiens, though, stormed back with third-period goals from Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki, forcing overtime.

“Give our guys a lot of credit for being able to turn that switch on and hit the ground running,” Capitals coach Spencer Carbery said. “Now we’ve got to string that through 60 minutes, not just two.”

Despite the blown lead, Washington regrouped in OT. Ovechkin struck again — his second goal of the game and his first career playoff overtime goal — to seal the 3-2 victory.

Dylan Strome quietly had a monster night with three assists, while Beauvillier assisted on the game-winner after scoring himself.

“It reminded me of our best stretch midseason,” Carbery noted of the Capitals’ first two periods.

Thompson’s Return Steadies Washington in Net

Making his first appearance since April 2, Logan Thompson stopped 33 of 35 shots in an encouraging return to the crease. The Capitals leaned on him late as Montreal surged — a vital test passed for a goalie still regaining full form after an upper-body injury.

Canadiens Show Fight, But Need Faster Start

Montreal’s youth was evident in the first 40 minutes, but the team flipped the switch midway through the third period — showcasing the resilience of players like Caufield and Suzuki, who combined for two goals and two assists.

“Did we calm down through that game a little bit? Yes,” said Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis. “I hope we can start Game 2 with that same mindset.”

Sam Montembeault, making his playoff debut, stood tall with 29 saves, keeping his team within reach despite relentless Washington pressure early.

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St. Louis likened playoff debuts to facing an MLB pitcher throwing 98 mph: hard to track at first, but easier with reps. The Canadiens hope Game 1’s experience accelerates their learning curve.

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Key Game 2 Factors

• Start Strong: Montreal can’t afford to play catch-up again.
• Convert Pressure: Washington dominated early but needs a full 60-minute effort.
• Ovechkin’s Leadership: The captain’s two-goal night set the tone. Can he replicate the magic?
• Montreal’s Poise: If the young Canadiens keep their composure early, this series is far from one-sided.

“We know what Washington is good at,” St. Louis added. “Now we have to execute through that.”