Closeout Mentality: Capitals Eye Game 5 Finish as Habs Fight to Survive

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. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Wonderful Pistachios Get snackin' and get crackin' with the snack that packs a protein punch. Visit WonderfulPistachios.com to learn more! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in Bonus Bets if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.