Logan Thompson's exceptional saves in Game 2 were crucial to the Capitals' victory.
Patrik Laine is out for the Canadiens with an upper-body injury.
The Canadiens are looking to capitalize on their home crowd advantage at the Bell Centre.
The Capitals have dominated the first two periods in the series but have struggled in the third.
Historically, teams winning the first two games of a best-of-7 series win the series 86.3% of the time.
The Washington Capitals are heading into Game 3 with a 2-0 series lead over the Montreal Canadiens. Logan Thompson's stellar performance in goal, particularly in the third period of Game 2, has been a major factor. Thompson made 25 saves, with 14 of them coming in the third period, earning him the first star of the game. His resilience is especially notable considering his recent return from injury.
Meanwhile, the Canadiens will be without Patrik Laine, who is day-to-day with an upper-body injury. Oliver Kapanen is likely to replace him in the lineup. Montreal aims to leverage the energy of their home crowd at the Bell Centre, which is hosting its first full-capacity playoff game since 2017. The Canadiens need to improve their first-period performance, as they have yet to score in the opening frame during this series. They have been dominant in the third period and hope to carry that momentum into Game 3.
The Capitals need to address their third-period struggles, as they have been outshot and outplayed in the final 20 minutes of the first two games. Coach Spencer Carbery emphasized the need to avoid becoming too passive with a lead. The experience of Capitals players who have won Stanley Cups could be a significant asset in managing the intense atmosphere in Montreal.
Q: Why is Patrik Laine not playing for the Canadiens?
Laine is out with an upper-body injury and is considered day-to-day.
Q: When was the last time the Canadiens played a home playoff game with full attendance?
April 20, 2017.
Q: What did Capitals coach Spencer Carbery say about Logan Thompson's performance?
Carbery said Thompson "was the difference tonight in the third" and "wins us that game in the third period."
Logan Thompson's outstanding goaltending is a key factor for the Capitals.
The Canadiens need to start strong and capitalize on their home crowd.
The Capitals must improve their third-period performance to maintain their lead.
Patrik Laine's absence is a significant blow to the Canadiens' lineup.
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