In a thrilling start to their playoff series, the Washington Capitals showed their physical dominance over the Montreal Canadiens, winning Game 1 3-2 in overtime. The Capitals delivered a staggering 42 hits, showcasing their aggressive style, while the Canadiens struggled to match that intensity. Star player Alex Ovechkin set the tone early, and the Capitals' physicality proved to be a significant factor in their victory.
Alex Ovechkin led the charge with a game-high seven hits, while teammates Brandon Duhaime and Lars Eller contributed five hits each. Anthony Beauvillier and Taylor Raddysh added four hits apiece, making it clear that the Capitals were ready to impose their will on the young Canadiens team. Tom Wilson also made headlines with a massive hit on Montreal's Kaiden Guhle, which highlighted the Capitals' aggressive approach.
Notably, Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis faced questions about his defensive strategy and the absence of enforcer Arber Xhekaj, who was a healthy scratch in Game 1. St. Louis was asked about Xhekaj's potential role in the lineup, responding, "I have Xhekaj. It’s a card. I might play him. I don’t know yet. But, you know, it’s good to have." The six-foot-four, 240-pound defenseman is known for his physical play and toughness, qualities that could have aided the Canadiens in countering the Capitals' aggression.
Despite Xhekaj's absence, the Canadiens managed to push the game to overtime, showing resilience by scoring twice in the final ten minutes of regulation. However, they couldn't hold off the Capitals in the extra frame, where Ovechkin netted the game-winner. The Canadiens' ability to rally late in the game provided hope, but their defensive pairings were under scrutiny after being outmatched physically.
In the aftermath of the game, the Canadiens reflected on their performance. Josh Anderson noted, "I think he just gives that extra motivation for guys maybe being a little bit more comfortable with him being out on the ice, knowing that he’s going to stick up for you and bring that toughness and that physicality." This sentiment underscores the importance of physical presence in playoff hockey, especially against a team like the Capitals.
As the Canadiens prepare for Game 2, speculation swirls around whether Xhekaj will make his playoff debut. He was the first player on the ice for practice on April 22, 2025, indicating his eagerness to contribute. However, St. Louis opted to maintain the same lineup for Game 2, emphasizing the need for consistency and cohesion among his defensemen.
While the Canadiens are confident in their ability to compete physically, the question remains whether they can effectively neutralize the Capitals' aggressive style without Xhekaj in the lineup. St. Louis acknowledged the challenge, stating, "I don’t think it’ll change the style of Wilson," referring to Tom Wilson's reputation as a physical player. He added, "Washington is going to keep doing the same thing. They’re very good at it. Listen, they are where they are for a reason. This is a very good hockey team."
In addition to the physical battle, the Canadiens are also dealing with injuries. Brendan Gallagher, who took a cross-check to the face in Game 1, is expected to play in Game 2, providing a boost to the team's offensive capabilities. Gallagher had a strong showing in Game 1, registering four shots on goal and three hits, demonstrating his importance to the Canadiens' lineup.
The stakes are high as the Canadiens look to even the series before it shifts back to their home arena, the Bell Centre. If they fall to 0-2, changes may be inevitable, and Xhekaj could be the key to providing the Canadiens with the physical edge they need to compete with the Capitals. As the series progresses, the battle for physicality will undoubtedly play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
With the playoffs in full swing, the intensity is palpable. The Canadiens must find a way to match the Capitals' physicality while maintaining their offensive prowess. As they prepare for Game 2, the question remains: can the Canadiens rise to the challenge and turn the tide in their favor?
