Washington Capitals vs. Montreal Canadiens Game 2: Playoff Preview and Best Bets

The Washington Capitals (leading the series 1-0) are preparing to host the Montreal Canadiens (trailing 0-1) in Game 2 of the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs first round. In the opening game on Monday night, the Canadiens staged a late rally with two goals in the third period to force overtime. However, Washington captain Alex Ovechkin ultimately secured the victory for the Capitals with a crucial goal from the front of the net. The Capitals also held an advantage over the Canadiens during the regular season, winning two of their three meetings.

Puck drop for Game 2 is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET from Capital One Arena in Washington D.C. According to the latest odds, Washington is listed as the favorite on the money line at -183 (bet $183 to win $100), while Montreal is the underdog at +153 (bet $100 to win $153). The projected total goals for the game (over/under) is set at 5.5. On the puck line, the Capitals are favored at -1.5 with odds of +142.

Notable Betting Opportunities for Game 2:

• Canadiens +1.5 on the puck line (-172): Despite having several players making their playoff debut, Montreal demonstrated resilience in Game 1 by fighting back and forcing overtime against a veteran Capitals squad. They managed to keep the score difference to just one goal in the previous meeting, suggesting they could cover the +1.5 puck line again.
• Alex Ovechkin Anytime Goalscorer (+115): “The Great 8” is currently in strong scoring form, having netted nine goals in his last nine games in April, including both the opening goal and the overtime winner in Game 1. He has been effective against Montreal this season, scoring three goals in three games. With 74 career playoff goals, Ovechkin remains a constant scoring threat.
• Cole Caufield 1+ Points (-128): The young forward has been consistently contributing offensively, recording at least one point in eight of his last 10 games during April. He was a key player in Montreal`s third-period push in Game 1, scoring a goal to help spark the comeback attempt. Odds favor him tallying at least one point in Game 2.