Montreal (1-3) at Washington (3-1)
- When: Apr 30 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Capital One Arena, Washington, DC, USA
- TV: ESPN
NHL Playoffs Game 5 Preview: Canadiens vs Capitals
Moneyline Favorite: Washington -195 | Total: 6.0
Washington Capitals Outlook
The Capitals head into Game 5 on home ice looking to close out the series and punch their ticket to the Eastern Conference semifinals. With a 5-2 win in Montreal last game, they regained control and momentum — largely thanks to a massive third-period surge and the tone-setting physicality of Tom Wilson. Washington outscored the Canadiens 4-0 in the final frame, with Wilson sparking the comeback through a bone-crushing neutral zone hit that ignited a quick goal by Brandon Duhaime.
Wilson’s blend of grit and impact makes him a playoff nightmare for opponents and a prized weapon for coach Spencer Carbery, who praised his rare combination of toughness and leadership. Strome and Beauvillier continue to provide steady offensive production, and Washington’s depth has outclassed Montreal’s as the series has progressed.
Expect the Caps to feed off the home crowd and deliver a more controlled, disciplined performance to put this series to bed.
Montreal Canadiens Outlook
Montreal’s Cinderella push is teetering. After stealing Game 3 at home, they were outworked and overwhelmed in Game 4. Rookie goaltender Jakub Dobes did what he could filling in for the injured Sam Montembeault, but this young squad simply hasn’t kept up with Washington’s late-game execution and physical edge.
Cole Caufield remains a bright spot with three goals in four games, and rookie Lane Hutson has impressed with five assists, joining rare NHL company. Still, the Canadiens are giving up too many high-danger chances and aren’t capitalizing on their own looks in tight.
Discipline and composure will be key if they want to avoid elimination. With Montembeault questionable and the pressure cranked to max, Montreal will need to deliver a nearly flawless performance on the road — something they haven’t shown they’re capable of yet.
Betting Analysis & Score Prediction
Washington’s playoff-tested core and edge in physical play make them a solid pick at home. They’ve worn Montreal down and should take full advantage of their inexperience. At -195, pairing the Caps with the Under 6.0 in a same-game parlay offers decent value, especially given the tighter checking expected in a closeout situation.
Prediction:
Best Bet: Capitals -1½ (+133)
Total: Under 6.0 (-105)
Final Score: Capitals 4, Canadiens 1
- NHL Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
