The Washington Capitals are on the verge of closing out their first-round playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens, leading 3-1. After dominating at home, they split the two games in Montreal, setting up a crucial Game 5 at Capital One Arena. Coach Spencer Carbery emphasizes the team's focus and the need to avoid overconfidence, while players like Pierre-Luc Dubois acknowledge that the Canadiens will come out fighting hard.

The series has been intensely physical, highlighted by significant hits and even injuries, such as defenseman Alex Alexeyev losing three teeth during a game. Tom Wilson, a central figure in the series, continues to embrace his physical style of play, which has earned him notoriety among Canadiens fans.

With the possibility of clinching the series at home, the Capitals are eager to capitalize on their momentum, although they remain aware of the historical tendency of teams leading 3-1 to falter. Players are determined to deliver their best effort, especially with the return of forward Aliaksei Protas, who has been sidelined by injury. The stakes are high as the Capitals aim to secure their first postseason series victory since 2018.