The Washington Capitals secured a vital 3-1 victory against the Montreal Canadiens in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference playoffs, establishing a 2-0 lead in the series. Coaches Martin St. Louis and Spencer Carbery emphasized the razor-thin margin that defines playoff success and failure, a feeling that resonates deeply with Capitals fans given the team's history of playoff misfortunes.

Despite flashes of brilliance, including key goals from Connor McMichael and Dylan Strome, the Capitals showcased that they could easily have faced a different outcome had they faltered at critical moments. The performance of goaltender Logan Thompson, who made 25 saves, became essential in maintaining their lead. As the series heads to Montreal for Game 3, the battle appears evenly matched, underscoring the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey.