Only 14 per cent of teams trailing 3–1 in the nhl playoffs force a Game 7. The Montreal Canadiens couldn’t join this small group. They lost 4-1 to the Washington Capitals in Game 5 at Capital One Arena. This loss sends Washington to face the Carolina Hurricanes in Round 2 of the stanley cup playoffs.
Alex Ovechkin scored first on the power play at 9:12. His one-timer off a Dylan Strome faceoff win set the tone. Jakob Chychrun doubled the lead at 11:15 after a quick cross-slot feed from Pierre-Luc Dubois.
Tom Wilson made it 3-0 late in the second, again on the man advantage. This was sparked by John Carlson’s point pressure. Those moments defined the canadiens playoff results on a night when special teams ruled.
Montreal pushed back. Emil Heineman tipped home a Joel Armia pass at 2:40 of the third. The crowd felt a shift. But Logan Thompson turned aside 28 shots, including 14 in the final frame, to mute the rally.
Brandon Duhaime’s empty-netter sealed it with 26 seconds left. For montreal hockey fans, the loss stings. Yet, the youngest team in the field showed stride and structure throughout the montreal canadiens playoffs.
Captain Nick Suzuki noted they “had a great start,” but the late second-period goal proved costly. Head coach Martin St. Louis praised the group’s resilience and growth under bright lights. As the Canadiens Playoffs chapter closes, the club leaves with lessons earned, a clear benchmark set, and a foundation to build on ahead of the next stanley cup playoffs chase.
Game 5 Recap: Capitals End Montreal’s Stanley Cup Playoffs Bid
At Capital One Arena, the Montreal Canadiens started strong but faced a tough Washington team. Fans watching the game saw a tense start that set the tone for the NHL playoffs. The question of whether the Canadiens would make the playoffs was on everyone’s mind.
Special teams played a big role, changing the game’s direction.
How Washington seized momentum with early special-teams success
Washington took control with two power-play goals early on. Alex Ovechkin scored a one-timer at 9:12, giving the home team a boost. Jakob Chychrun then scored at 11:15, making it 2-0 for Washington.
Tom Wilson added another power-play goal in the second, making it 3-0. Montreal had two chances but missed, letting Washington keep their lead.
Logan Thompson’s 28 saves and third-period stands
Logan Thompson made 28 saves, keeping the Canadiens in the game. He stopped a 3-on-1 try and a shot by Nick Suzuki late in the game. Each save was a reminder of the Canadiens’ fight in the playoffs.
Emil Heineman’s goal as the lone breakthrough for Montreal
Emil Heineman scored at 2:40 of the third, making it 3-1 Montreal. This goal showed how close the margins are in the playoffs. But Washington’s defense kept the Canadiens from getting closer.
Empty-netter seals the 4-1 final at Capital One Arena
With the net empty, Brandon Duhaime scored with 26 seconds left, sealing the 4-1 win. Dubois talked about the importance of structure and special teams. Jake Evans mentioned the swings that kept the momentum with Washington. Despite a strong start, the Canadiens’ playoff hopes were dashed on this night.
Series at a Glance: Tight Games, Thin Margins in the NHL Playoffs
In five games, the difference was small. Two early games were decided by a single bounce. The first overtime game set the stage for the NHL playoffs.
The Canadiens’ schedule offered little rest. Each third period was like flipping a coin. This shaped the Montreal Canadiens’ playoff journey and the final results.
Why Washington’s power play and structure made the difference
Washington used a layered forecheck and short shifts. Their power play was on point, scoring 2-for-3 in Game 5. Alex Ovechkin, Tom Wilson, and Dylan Strome gave the Capitals many chances.
Montreal’s penalty kill worked well but chased the puck too long. Without clear clears, momentum shifted. This made the NHL playoffs’ margin even smaller. The Canadiens’ results showed how special teams played a big role.
Montreal’s Game 3 statement win at the Bell Centre
At the Bell Centre, Montreal played with speed and depth. The forecheck trapped Washington’s defense. The crowd’s energy fueled the Canadiens’ run.
Rookie legs and depth scoring were key. With Logan Thompson screened, rebounds became chances. The crowd’s support kept hope alive.
Game 4 third-period swing that shifted the series
Game 4 was all about details. Washington got their first road win with a heavy cycle and a penalty. Strome extended his point streak.
Montreal, missing Sam Montembeault late, pushed to even it. But with the ice tilted, breakouts were hard. This added stress to the Canadiens’ run and schedule.
| Game | Venue | Decision | Special Teams Impact | Notable Performers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | Capital One Arena | Washington wins in OT | Late PP looks set tone | Dylan Strome opens series scoring touch |
| Game 2 | Capital One Arena | Washington by one | PK duel; Caps protect lead | Tom Wilson net‑front pressure |
| Game 3 | Bell Centre | Montreal statement win | Habs tilt five‑on‑five play | Emil Heineman and depth finishers spark crowd |
| Game 4 | Bell Centre | Washington third‑period rally | Drawn penalty turns momentum | Alex Ovechkin strikes from his spot |
| Game 5 | Capital One Arena | Washington closes series | 2-for-3 on PP seals margin | Logan Thompson stands tall; Strome extends streak |
Snapshot: Thin margins defined the NHL playoffs pace, the Canadiens’ playoff schedule, and the final results.
Key Moments That Defined the Montreal Canadiens Playoff Run
Across a tense week of montreal hockey, small swings decided everything. The nhl canadiens playoffs matchup tilted on special teams, shot volume, and one-timers that arrived on time. In the context of canadiens playoffs history, each play echoed bigger stakes and framed a resilient montreal canadiens playoff run.
Alex Ovechkin’s first-period power-play strike in Game 5
At 9:12 of the first, Alex Ovechkin uncorked a left-circle one-timer off a Dylan Strome faceoff win. Montreal had owned early looks, yet this blast flipped the rink. From there, Washington’s structure squeezed entries and muted second chances, a theme that shaped the nhl canadiens playoffs narrative.
Pierre-Luc Dubois to Jakob Chychrun: the dagger sequence
At 11:15, Pierre-Luc Dubois threaded a feed that Jakob Chychrun hammered home for 2-0. The pass dissected coverage and found space high in the slot. Chychrun later called it a “heck of a pass,” and the sequence underscored how timing beat numbers during the montreal canadiens playoff run.
Pressure mounted again when Tom Wilson struck on the power play at 16:59 of the second. Each detail—net-front positioning, puck recovery, quick release—kept Montreal chasing. In canadiens playoffs history, those layered moments often separate survival from exit.
Crucial late saves: Thompson’s robbery on Nick Suzuki
With the extra attacker on late in Game 5, Logan Thompson flashed the glove to rob Nick Suzuki from the right dot. The stop mirrored his close in Game 2 and preserved a multi-goal cushion. Brandon Duhaime’s empty-netter with 26 seconds left wrapped the night.
Game 3 at the Bell Centre stands out for Montreal’s surge. But Washington’s opportunism held across the nhl canadiens playoffs stretch. Between the Game 4 third-period swing and disciplined breakouts, the series settled on fine margins that defined modern montreal hockey.
Canadiens Roster Standouts and Storylines
The montreal canadiens ended a tough spring with some bright spots. They had a strong chase for the nhl canadiens playoffs. A few players really stood out, making big impacts and setting the stage for the future.
Nick Suzuki’s 89-point season and faceoff clinic in Game 5
Nick Suzuki led the team with 89 points, the highest for a Hab in years. In Game 5, he won 13 faceoffs out of 19. This control and calm were key for the montreal canadiens in tight moments.
Lane Hutson’s record-setting rookie campaign on defence
Lane Hutson broke records for a rookie defenceman. He added speed and power to the team. His skills at the blue line showed he could be a key player for the future.
Sam Montembeault’s emergence and late-series injury
Sam Montembeault became the team’s top goalie this season. He was known for his efficient play and strong rebound control. But, a lower-body injury in Game 3 forced him out, and Jakub Dobeš took over. This change showed the team’s depth and growth.
Contributions from Josh Anderson, Brendan Gallagher, and Emil Heineman
Josh Anderson and Brendan Gallagher had their best seasons in years. They worked hard to drive the net. Emil Heineman scored in Game 5, showing the team’s quick pace.
David Savard played his last NHL game, and the team honored him. This moment showed the human side of the montreal canadiens story.
Patrik Laine missed three games with an injury. But, the team’s structure stayed strong, showing their hard work.
Answering the Big Question: Are the Canadiens in the Playoffs?
Fans wondered all spring if the Canadiens would make the playoffs. The answer was a resounding yes. Montreal secured the second wild-card spot with a 4-2 win over the Carolina Hurricanes. This was their first playoff appearance in 2021.
So, were the Montreal Canadiens in the playoffs? Yes, they were. They faced the top-seeded Washington Capitals in Round 1. Though they lost 4-1, it was a step forward for their young team.
The journey was tough. Montreal finished with 91 points and a -20 goal differential, the lowest among qualifiers. But a strong 15-5-6 run after the 4 Nations Face-Off break turned things around. This push made their playoffs appearance more believable.
| Milestone | Detail | Why It Mattered |
|---|---|---|
| Wild-card clinch | 4-2 vs. Carolina on final night | Answered “are the canadiens in the playoffs” with a decisive win |
| Season points | 91 | Lowest among qualifiers, underscoring thin margins |
| Goal differential | -20 | Highlighted the grind behind the montreal canadiens playoffs bid |
| Post-break surge | 15-5-6 after 4 Nations Face-Off | Fuelled the canadiens playoffs chase from 31st on 1 December |
| Round 1 result | Lost 4-1 to Washington | Ended the run but confirmed progress for a young core |
In short, the question “are the montreal canadiens in the playoffs” was met with a clear yes, forged by resilience and timely wins.
Capitals Advance: What It Means for the East and the Hurricanes Matchup
Washington’s win has changed the game in the nhl playoffs. It has also made the Eastern Conference more interesting. The montreal canadiens’ run has been a big story, keeping fans excited for weeks.
Washington’s first series win in five years and what changed
The Capitals won thanks to their timely scoring and solid defence. Alex Ovechkin scored his fourth goal, tying Mario Lemieux’s record. Tom Wilson used his speed and strength, while Dylan Strome scored in every game.
Logan Thompson made key saves, showing his calm under pressure.
Why Carolina awaits as a contrast in style
Carolina plays a different game, focusing on a fast forecheck and strong slot play. This style will challenge the Capitals’ ability to enter the zone and score from the net.
Implications for the Eastern Conference race
Washington’s win and the canadiens’ exit have changed the seeding. The focus now is on puck control and special teams. Fans will watch closely as teams compete for every detail.
Canadiens Playoffs
The Canadiens Playoffs story ended in Washington, but it was full of ups and downs. The nhl canadiens playoffs started with a sting in Game 1 and a tight win in Game 2. Back in Montréal, a packed Bell Centre cheered on a big win in Game 3, the first sellout in years.
Game 4 was a surprise as the Capitals took control in the third, winning on the road for the first time. The series ended with a nail-biting Game 5, thanks to special teams and late saves. Throughout, players like Nick Suzuki, Lane Hutson, and Josh Anderson were key. Injuries to Sam Montembeault and the loss of Patrik Laine changed the team’s look.
Context is important. They were the East’s second wild card with 91 points and a tough goal differential. The young team learned a lot on the job. Fans were excited, checking the canadiens playoff schedule and buying tickets fast.
Looking to the future, fans are eager for the next chapter. Those who follow the nhl canadiens playoffs closely know the team gained valuable experience. This season’s efforts will shape their next playoff run.
Montreal Hockey Pulse: Fan Reactions and Community Pride
Across Canada, fans felt a mix of pride and sadness after Game 5. In bars from Montreal to Calgary, they talked about a season that brought montreal hockey back into their lives. The Canadiens made fans care again, even with the tough loss.
Disappointment mixed with optimism across Canada
Fans were upset but also proud of the team’s effort. They highlighted the strong play of young players and the team’s determination. On talk radio and in canadiens news segments, the mood was hopeful.
Traveling fans said the journey was worth it. Families wore red in rival rinks and cheered loudly at home. The excitement showed the canadiens playoffs are loved far and wide.
“They weren’t supposed to make it”: exceeding expectations
Many saw this season as a bonus in a rebuild year. They praised the growth under Martin St. Louis and Nick Suzuki’s leadership. Fans urged the team to keep building, believing wins will come.
Fans looked for roster hints and updates. They eagerly awaited canadiens news and when canadiens tickets would go on sale. The patience was real, but so was the desire for more.
Bell Centre atmosphere and the return of playoff energy
The Bell Centre was loud like the old days. Game 3 sold out, filling the arena with energy. Drums, horns, and flags added to the excitement.
This energy spread across the country. In this wave, montreal hockey took back its place, and the montreal canadiens reconnected with fans. The canadiens playoffs brought the nation together again.
Turning Points of the Season That Led to the Montreal Canadiens Playoffs Berth
Resilience was key before the season started. The team adopted Martin St. Louis’s fast-paced style. They learned to win close games.
This change was seen throughout the season. It set the stage for their push into the playoffs.
From 31st on December 1 to a wild-card clinch
On December 1, they were in last place. But a quick change in their game turned things around. They started winning close games.
This winning streak kept their playoff hopes alive. It was a turning point in their season.
But then, they hit a rough patch in late January. They worked hard to improve their game. They focused on better breakouts and special teams.
This effort kept them in the playoff race. As spring approached, their chances looked better.
The 15-5-6 surge after the 4 Nations Face-Off break
After the 4 Nations Face-Off break, they went on a 15-5-6 streak. They scored important goals in the third period. Their depth scoring improved.
They became more confident on the road. The team’s belief grew stronger.
They started to trust each other more. This trust showed in their game. It made them ready for the playoffs.
Clinching against Carolina and shifting national attention
They clinched the final Eastern wild-card spot with a 4-2 win over Carolina. This win caught the nation’s attention. It highlighted their youth and determination.
With this win, fans could follow the playoffs with excitement. The city was ready for the Canadiens’ playoff run.
Canadiens Playoffs History Context and What’s Next
The montreal canadiens returned to the nhl playoffs with a fresh team and a clear goal. Their journey added a new chapter to their playoffs history. It was marked by tight games and steady growth.
Their playoff run was urgent but calm. This calmness was felt throughout the team.
First appearance in 2021 and youngest team in the field
This was their first playoff appearance in 2021, beating expectations. Martin St. Louis said the team is very young. They rely on speed, structure, and calmness.
Veterans like Brendan Gallagher saw this as a chance to teach young players. They learned to handle pressure.
For the montreal canadiens, these moments were valuable. Players like Nick Suzuki, Lane Hutson, and Sam Montembeault gained experience. They learned from spring hockey.
Qualifying with 91 points and a -20 goal differential
The team qualified with 91 points and a -20 goal differential. This was the lowest among all qualifiers. They focused on winning through patience and details.
They didn’t try to win by chasing the game. Instead, they played short shifts and left quickly.
This entry in the canadiens playoffs history is notable for its youth and resilience. The team turned small margins into valuable lessons, shift by shift.
How this run fits into the franchise rebuild timeline
The rebuild aims to empower the core while keeping high standards. The playoffs gave the team valuable experience. They learned about special teams and playing under pressure.
This experience will help the montreal canadiens in future playoffs. The lessons learned will support their growth and rebuild.
| Context | 2025 Snapshot | Relevance to Rebuild | Key Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playoff Return | First berth in 2021 | Establishes competitive baseline for young core | Nick Suzuki, Lane Hutson, Sam Montembeault |
| Team Profile | Youngest lineup in the field | Accelerates growth under pressure | Brendan Gallagher mentoring forward group |
| Entry Metrics | 91 points, -20 goal differential | Highlights need for efficiency at five-on-five | Coaching under Martin St. Louis |
| Series Takeaways | Close games, late-swing moments | Informs special teams and clock management | Leadership group and supporting veterans |
| Path Forward | Banked playoff reps | Foundation for sustained canadiens playoffs bids | Core development within nhl playoffs standard |
What’s Ahead: Canadiens Schedule, Roster Decisions, and Off-season Priorities
The Montreal Canadiens are heading into a critical off-season. They have clear goals for health, balance on defense, and growth in the forward lines. Fans are eagerly following the canadiens schedule and canadiens news for updates.
Health updates on Sam Montembeault and depth in goal
Sam Montembeault’s injury in Game 3 has put a focus on health and planning. He’s the top goalie, but the team will carefully plan his return to avoid burnout.
Rookie Jakub Dobes made his playoff debut, gaining valuable experience. The team will consider his progress and other options to ensure strong backup goalie support.
Evaluating defensive growth around Hutson and the blue line
Lane Hutson’s impressive rookie year is a big plus for the defense. The team will work on supporting him with solid partners and smart matchups.
With David Savard retiring, finding new leaders and depth on the right side is key. The team will experiment with different pairings to balance defense and offense.
Forward group tweaks and internal development pathways
Nick Suzuki’s strong season at center will influence forward line decisions. The team will refine roles around him and focus on internal growth for speed and scoring.
Players like Josh Anderson, Brendan Gallagher, and Emil Heineman are important for this effort. The Canadiens aim to improve entry speed and secondary scoring without losing structure.
When to watch for canadiens news, canadiens tickets, and preseason dates
Fans should watch for updates on the canadiens schedule, training camp, and preseason. Important dates include medical clearances, arbitration, and rookie camp invites.
Keep an eye out for canadiens news on open practices and community events. Tickets for preseason games are in high demand, so plan early to get yours. The Montreal Canadiens are looking to make progress in the off-season.
Conclusion
The season ended with a 4-1 loss in Game 5 and a 4-1 series loss to Washington. But the montreal canadiens gained a lot. They moved from 31st on 1 December to a wild-card spot at 91 points.
Game 1 and Game 2 were close, but Game 3 showed their true strength at the Bell Centre. Game 4 showed how small things can change a game.
Nick Suzuki had a great year with 89 points and was key in big games. Lane Hutson set rookie records on defence and pushed the team forward. Sam Montembeault played well in goal before getting hurt.
Washington will face Carolina next, led by Alex Ovechkin and others. Montreal’s pride is high, and the Bell Centre is buzzing. The Canadiens learned a lot and will come back stronger.
The Canadiens showed a young team that can handle the pressure. With health and more development, they aim to make a bigger impact next season. Their future looks bright.