The Canadiens have a chance to level their playoff series against Washington when they host Game 4 on Sunday, looking to build on their impressive 6-3 win in Game 3.
Home ice has been the difference-maker so far, with the Capitals taking the first two games in D.C. before Montreal struck back on their own turf.
It’s been a classic underdog story. Washington dominated the Eastern Conference all season, while Montreal barely squeaked into the playoffs as the final seed.
The oddsmakers still see Washington as the favorites, giving them -128 odds to take Game 3. Montreal sits at +108 as the underdogs.
Alex Ovechkin has been doing what he does best – finding the back of the net. The NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer has already buried three in this series, including a two-goal performance in Washington’s 3-2 opener.
But Montreal’s young captain Nick Suzuki is making his presence felt too. He’s notched two goals of his own, including a crucial one in Friday’s win.
The betting experts have their eyes on a few key players for Game 4. They’re particularly watching Suzuki’s point total (expecting under 1.5), rookie defenseman Lane Hutson’s production, and Ovechkin’s shot count.
Hutson has been a pleasant surprise for the Canadiens with three assists in the series. But the numbers suggest he might have a quieter night on Sunday.
As for Ovechkin? The Russian superstar has led the league in shots 11 times and averaged 3.65 shots this season. But he’s been taking fewer shots on the road lately, averaging just 3.2 when Washington’s favored away from home.
The total goals over/under is set at 6, setting up what could be another high-scoring affair between these two teams.
With the series momentum hanging in the balance, Sunday’s game could be the turning point both teams have been waiting for.
