Montreal Canadiens promise more push in Game 2 and Arber Xhekaj could enter the lineup
Photo credit: Imagn Images
After a 3-2 overtime loss in Game 1, the Montreal Canadiens know they need a better performance Wednesday night if they hope to even their series with the top-seeded Washington Capitals.
Montreal struggled early in Game 1, getting outhit 20-14 in the opening period and surrendering the first goal to Alex Ovechkin. The Habs managed to rally in the third with goals from Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki but ultimately fell in OT.
«We knew what to expect going into the first period,» winger Josh Anderson said Tuesday afternoon in Washington after the Canadiens practised at Capital One Arena.
«I thought they came out hard, had a little bit of momentum. I think as the game progressed we got better in the second and third periods. «There were things to look at and learn from. You should see a better start from us.»
Despite their resilience, the Montreal Canadiens recognize they'll need to bring more physicality and control the puck better to compete with Washington's size and experience.
«I thought they came out hard, had a little bit of momentum. I think as the game progressed we got better in the second and third periods. «There were things to look at and learn from. You should see a better start from us.»
Despite their resilience, the Montreal Canadiens recognize they'll need to bring more physicality and control the puck better to compete with Washington's size and experience.
«I have to find ways to be more physical and be on their top players,» said Anderson, part of a line with Brendan Gallagher and Christian Dvorak. Gallagher sat out Tuesday's practice but is expected to play.
No lineup changes were confirmed but Martin St. Louis hinted that physical defenseman Arber Xhekaj could be an option for the Canadiens.
«If he comes in, you have to take someone out,» St. Louis told reporters Tuesday in Washington. «It's about what you win and what you lose. I don't think it's going to change the style of play of a guy like (Tom) Wilson. «I have Xhekaj. It's a card. I might play him. I don't know yet, but it's good to have.»
With the series still in Washington, Montreal must find a way to win at least one road game to advance and they hope Wednesday offers that opportunity.
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 23 | 71 ANSWERS Montreal Canadiens promise more push in Game 2 and Arber Xhekaj could enter the lineup Do you think Arber Xhekaj could make a big difference for the Montreal Canadiens in game 2? | ||
| Yes | 12 | 16.9 % |
| No | 59 | 83.1 % |
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