Capitals Rally Past Canadiens in Game 4 of Playoffs

MONTREAL — The Washington Capitals surged back to beat the Montreal Canadiens 5-2 in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference First Round on Sunday at Bell Centre. The win gives the Capitals a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.

Capitals forward Tom Wilson, known for his physical play, decided to focus on hockey rather than fighting this game. Before the puck dropped, Wilson acknowledged the intense atmosphere at the Bell Centre, emphasizing the need to control his emotions. “It’s one of those buildings you love playing in. You want to keep your emotions in check,” he said.

Wilson made a pivotal play in the third period with a hard check on Canadiens defenseman Alexandre Carrier at 6:24. Just seconds later, teammate Brandon Duhaime scored the tying goal, shifting the game’s momentum in favor of Washington.

“That’s playoff hockey. That’s what he does,” Duhaime said, crediting Wilson’s hit for energizing the team. Following Duhaime’s goal, Andrew Mangiapane scored, giving the Capitals the lead. Duhaime added an empty-net goal to seal the victory.

Capitals coach Spencer Carbery praised Wilson’s ability to adapt. “He can take a step back and realize he needs to be better in this area,” Carbery said. Wilson’s determination to stay on the ice rather than engage in fights was a key aspect of the win.

Despite the early challenges—Montreal scored two power-play goals to lead 2-1 at one point—the Capitals regrouped in the third period. “Sometimes our group just needs to be reminded of who we are,” Carbery noted.

Logan Thompson returned from an injury to make 16 saves for Washington, demonstrating his resilience as the team aims for a playoff run. “I just want to control my emotions,” Wilson said post-game, reflecting on his experience in Game 4.

Game 5 will take place at Capital One Arena on April 30, 2025, as the Capitals look to close out the series against the Canadiens.