The Washington Capitals and Montreal Canadiens are set to face off in Game 3 of their first-round Stanley Cup Playoffs series on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET. The Capitals lead the series 2-0 and will look to extend their advantage, while the Canadiens aim to leverage their home ice to get back into the series.
Team Overview:
Washington Capitals:
The Capitals, winners of the Metropolitan Division, have been dominant so far in the series. They secured a 3-2 overtime victory in Game 1, thanks to Alex Ovechkin’s game-winning goal, and followed it up with a 3-1 win in Game 2. Washington’s offense, led by Ovechkin and Dylan Strome, has been effective, while goaltender Logan Thompson has been stellar, stopping 58 of 61 shots across the first two games. The Capitals’ ability to control the pace and capitalize on scoring opportunities has been a key factor in their success.
Montreal Canadiens:
The Canadiens, who clinched the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, have shown flashes of competitiveness but have struggled to finish games. Despite a strong third-period rally in Game 1 and a solid defensive effort in Game 2, Montreal has been unable to solve Thompson consistently. Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki have been the offensive standouts for the Canadiens, but they will need more contributions from their depth players to turn the tide.
Key Players to Watch:
Washington Capitals:
- Alex Ovechkin: The 39-year-old captain continues to be a force, with three points (two goals, one assist) in the series so far. His leadership and scoring ability make him a constant threat.
- Dylan Strome: Strome has been a key contributor, with four points in the first two games, including the game-winning goal in Game 2.
- Logan Thompson: The goaltender has been a rock for Washington, posting a 1.47 goals-against average and a .951 save percentage in the series.
Montreal Canadiens:
- Cole Caufield: The young winger has been Montreal’s most dangerous offensive player, scoring a power-play goal in Game 1.
- Nick Suzuki: The captain has been a steady presence, contributing a goal and an assist in the series.
- Sam Montembeault: The goaltender has faced heavy pressure but has kept Montreal in games with a .921 save percentage.
Matchup Analysis:
Offense vs. Defense:
Washington’s high-powered offense will continue to test Montreal’s defense, which has struggled to contain the Capitals’ top scorers. The Canadiens must find a way to limit Ovechkin’s touches and disrupt Washington’s forecheck.
Special Teams:
The Capitals’ power play has been effective, while Montreal’s penalty kill has been inconsistent. The Canadiens will need to stay disciplined and capitalize on their own power-play opportunities to stay competitive.
Home Ice Advantage:
The Bell Centre is known for its electric atmosphere, and the Canadiens will look to feed off the energy of their home crowd. Montreal has been a strong home team during the regular season, and this game presents an opportunity to shift momentum.
Game Odds
Washington Capitals – 120
Montreal Canadiens 5.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 24, 2025
