Wed May 07 00:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Capitals Eliminate Canadiens in Five Games, Advance to Second Round

**WASHINGTON, D.C. —** The Washington Capitals swept aside the Montreal Canadiens in a decisive 4-1 victory Wednesday night at Capital One Arena, ending Montreal’s playoff run in the first round. The win secured a 4-1 series victory for the Capitals, who will now face the Carolina Hurricanes in the second round.

Alex Ovechkin led the charge for Washington, scoring a power-play goal early in the game. Jakob Chychrun and Tom Wilson added power-play goals of their own, giving the Capitals a commanding 3-0 lead before the second intermission. While Emil Heineman scored for Montreal early in the third period, Brandon Duhaime sealed the win with an empty-netter late in the game.

Following the game, the Canadiens posted a gracious message on social media, acknowledging their defeat with a handshake emoji and a photo of Nick Suzuki and Alex Ovechkin during the postgame handshakes.

Despite their early exit, the Canadiens’ playoff appearance marked their first since 2021, a feat the team can celebrate as they head into the offseason. The Capitals, meanwhile, continue their quest for the Stanley Cup.

Read More