Washington Capitals vs
Montreal CanadiensPredictions & Preview

Washington Capitals Dominate Montreal Canadiens in Game 3, Take Commanding 3-0 Series Lead

The Washington Capitals and Montreal Canadiens face off in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series, with Washington currently leading 2-0. Washington won Game 1 in overtime and Game 2 by a score of 3-1. Montreal will need to secure a win to avoid elimination in Game 4. Washington is the betting favorite, with odds opening at -132 and the current line at Washington -117. Stay tuned for our prediction on the outcome of this crucial matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Capitals -117 | Canadiens +103
• Spread: Capitals -1.5 (+205) | Canadiens +1.5 (-248)
• Total: Over/Under 5.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Washington will win straight-up is 54%.

Washington vs Montreal Stats

Washington Capitals

In Game 2 of the series, Washington displayed strong defensive play in their own end of the ice, leading them to a home win against the Montreal Canadiens. With eyes set on a 3-0 series lead, the Capitals have proven to be a force to be reckoned with, ranking 8th in goals per game and 2nd in goals against in the postseason. Their power play success rate of 33.3% and penalty kill rate of 75% further solidify their dominance on the ice. In the previous game, Washington held a significant shots advantage and managed to outscore Montreal to secure the victory. Connor McMichael and Dylan Strome were key contributors to the win, while Logan Thompson stood strong between the pipes with 25 saves. As the series progresses, Washington's impressive offensive and defensive performance positions them as a formidable contender in the playoffs.

Montreal Canadiens Analysis

The Montreal Canadiens faced a tough loss in a closely contested one-goal game on Wednesday night, putting them in a 2-0 series deficit. They are currently ranked 15th in offense with an average of 1.50 goals per game in the playoffs, while also tied for 7th in goals against, allowing an average of three goals per game. Their power play is ranked 9th, successfully converting 25% of their chances, and their penalty killing is tied for 10th, navigating 66.7% of shorthanded situations. Despite being outshot in the game, they were unable to generate enough offense to secure the win. Goalie Sam Montembeault made 29 saves and is expected to start the next game. The Canadiens have an overall power ranking of 15 and are ranked 17th in offense, scoring an average of 2.98 goals per game, and 23rd in defense, giving up an average of 3.23 points per game. In their last three matchups against Washington, Montreal went 1-1-1.

Montreal Canadiens Struggle to Generate Offense Against Dominant Washington Capitals

The Montreal Canadiens have effectively limited the offensive capabilities of the Washington Capitals in the first two games of the series, allowing only three goals in each game. However, Montreal has struggled to generate offense themselves, scoring only three goals total in the series. The Canadiens have held the lead for a mere 2 minutes and 21 seconds in the first two games, and have quickly fallen behind after allowing tying goals. This is a challenge for Montreal, particularly as Washington's Nate Thompson has regained his form following a late-season slump. With limited experience in high-pressure situations, Montreal may struggle to overcome a team led by the league's all-time leading goal scorer. Despite their efforts, Montreal ultimately falls short as Washington secures a 3-0 series lead.

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