In today’s episode of Locked On Capitals, we preview the high-stakes Game 5 matchup as the Capitals return to Capital One Arena with a 3-1 series lead over the Canadiens. With a chance to advance past the first round for the first time since 2018, Washington is focused on staying composed and sticking to their structure. Spencer Carbery has challenged the team to bring their best game yet, while veterans like Lars Eller and Tom Wilson are emphasizing a business-as-usual mindset, despite the rare opportunity to clinch a series on home ice. Meanwhile, Nic Dowd and Anthony Beauvillier acknowledged the significance and difficulty of finishing a series, especially against a desperate Montreal squad.

The middle segment spotlights Aliaksei Protas, who returned to full-contact practice and is on the cusp of rejoining the lineup. His size, puck protection, and defensive maturity could be key assets in Game 5. We then turn to the Canadiens’ side, where defenseman Alexandre Carrier is questionable after two big hits in Game 4. If he can’t go, Montreal will have to juggle an already thin blue line with unconventional pairings. The Habs have been playing with their backs against the wall for months and won’t go down easy, making this a true test of Washington’s “killer instinct” and playoff mettle.

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