Breaking News: Capitals Close Out Canadiens in Game 5, Montreal’s First-Round Playoff Woes Continue
Capitals Eliminate Canadiens in Game 5, Extending Montreal’s First-Round Misery
WASHINGTON — The Montreal Canadiens saw their playoff hopes come to a crushing end Thursday night as the Washington Capitals closed out the series with a 4–2 victory in Game 5, sending Montreal home after yet another first-round exit.
The Canadiens, who entered the postseason as underdogs, fought hard throughout the series but couldn’t match the firepower and composure of the Capitals. Washington’s star winger Alex Ovechkin led the charge with two goals, including the game-winner midway through the third period.
Montreal opened the scoring early in the first with a power-play goal from Cole Caufield, giving fans a flicker of hope. But Washington responded quickly, taking control of the pace and outshooting the Habs 35–21 by the final buzzer.
Goaltender Jake Allen stood tall with 31 saves, but the pressure proved too much as defensive breakdowns and missed opportunities haunted Montreal in the final minutes.
“We gave it everything we had, but it wasn’t enough,” said Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki. “It’s a tough pill to swallow.”
This marks the third time in five seasons that the Canadiens have been eliminated in the opening round. With questions now swirling around coaching decisions, player contracts, and the team’s long-term direction, Montreal faces a pivotal offseason.
The Capitals, meanwhile, advance to the second round with momentum on their side — and the Canadiens are left wondering what could have been.