Capitals Break the Curse: First Series Win Since 2018. What to expect in Round 2

 The Washington Capitals have finally advanced to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since their 2018 championship run, ending a seven-year streak of early exits. They closed out the Montreal Canadiens in five games with a decisive 4-1 victory at Capital One Arena, led by Alex Ovechkin’s four-goal series, steady goaltending from Logan Thompson, and timely scoring from depth players like Brandon Duhaime and Jakob Chychrun. Head coach Spencer Carbery’s system and composure helped guide a relatively new core—featuring standouts like Connor McMichael and Pierre-Luc Dubois—through tightly contested games and adversity, proving this year’s group has a different feel from the past few disappointing playoff squads.Despite the 4-1 series margin, Montreal pushed hard, with three of the games coming down to the wire. Still, the Caps responded to each challenge with maturity and structure, showing they can both absorb and deliver pressure. With the Carolina Hurricanes now looming in the second round, Washington faces a significant test against a disciplined and relentless team. The matchup will likely hinge on special teams, goaltending consistency, and how the Capitals’ newer additions handle a deeper playoff grind. But for now, Caps fans can finally exhale—the drought is over.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.Wonderful PistachiosGet snackin' and get crackin' with the snack that packs a protein punch. Visit WonderfulPistachios.com to learn more!  GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in Bonus Bets if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4kDid you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required.UpworkVisit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level.  FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.