The Washington Capitals hold a 2-0 lead over the Montreal Canadiens in their first-round playoff series. Washington won the first two games at home, both featuring periods where the Canadiens pushed back.
Goaltender Logan Thompson played a central role in the Capitals' Game 2 victory. He made saves in the third period that helped secure the 3-1 win on April 23. His performance was noted as a difference-maker in that Game 2.
The series started with the Capitals needing Game 1 in overtime to get the win after blowing a lead in the third period. The third period proved challenging again for Washington in the second game.
The series now shifts to Montreal for Game 3 on April 26. The Montreal Canadiens will host a playoff game with a full Bell Centre crowd for the first time since 2017. Information about the team's playoff run is available on their Playoff Central page.
For the Capitals vs Canadiens matchup, fans can review team and player performance. Capitals Player Statistics and Canadiens Player Statistics provide insights into the series. A detailed look is also available via the NHL Gamecenter Preview.
To succeed in Montreal, the Canadiens face challenges. They look to use the home crowd energy effectively. Disciplined play and capitalizing on power play chances are seen as important areas for improvement. Limiting Washington's high-danger scoring chances, especially early in games, is also a focus.
The goaltending in the recent Caps game was a key topic. Capitals coach Spencer Carbery discussed Thompson's play after Game 2.
"He was the difference tonight in the third," Carbery said. "He wins us that game in the third period."
The Capitals hold serve at home, take 2-0 series lead to Montreal as the series continues.
