Canadiens, Capitals Begin Playoffs Monday Night

The Montreal Canadiens, led by veteran Brendan Gallagher, are preparing for a challenging playoff series against the top-seeded Washington Capitals, emphasizing a long and physical battle ahead. As the Canadiens' young roster, including players like Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki, gears up for their first postseason appearance since 2021, Gallagher's leadership is seen as crucial for their playoff readiness. Notably, Canadiens forwards Patrik Laine and Ivan Demidov have downplayed the significance of facing Capitals' star Alex Ovechkin, expressing confidence rather than awe, despite Ovechkin recently breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record and seeking another Stanley Cup. Laine's dismissive remarks about Ovechkin have drawn attention, potentially providing extra motivation for the Capitals' veteran. The matchup is highlighted as a test between Washington's experience and Montreal's youthful energy, with both teams eager to make a strong postseason impression. Game 1 is set to begin Monday night in Washington.